I loved the reminder in the Outflow reading this morning. As we naturally outflow to our family and friends, we need to be mindful of the context in which our words are understood and received.
If the context is an honest answer to their honest question, they are more likely to receive the answer. If the context is an argument that we are trying to win, they are more likely to reject the answer, even if it is the “correct” answer.
I love the fact that the authors took great care to say that we must always be ready to explain why it is that we have hope, but that we need to do so with “gentleness and respect”. As Peter put it:
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. – 1 Peter 3:15-16
Lord, please help me to be prepared to explain the hope I have in You to the people I know and love the most.
