I believe

"But in your hearts revere 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,"  1 Peter 3:15

Have you ever encountered people who will talk about everything in the world other than their faith? They will gladly tell you about the latest book they read, the newest restaurant in town or their favorite football team.  They may even give you a list of reasons why their team might win the Superbowl, or quote the last five years of their stats from memory.  Isn't it amazing what the human mind can remember?  What I find more amazing is that so many people have this idea that faith is a personal matter that should be kept to themselves.  While we certainly shouldn't be obnoxious or boisterous about our faith (that would certainly turn people away), we shouldn't keep it to ourselves either.

Before someone even wonders what we believe though, shouldn't they know by our actions? Without our ever having to say a word, shouldn't people see the love of Christ in us through the way we treat them and others?  Colossians 3:12 says, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,".  If others are seeing compassion, kindness, humility and patience practiced in our lives, they are seeing Christ whether they know it or not. We can be a witness without ever saying a word!  By being consistent in our behavior and attitude, eventually others will want to know the secret to the peace we have - and hopefully ask the question, why?  It's then that we should be ready to give an answer, gently and respectfully of why we believe in Jesus Christ - and thus share the story of Salvation.  

Can others see Christ in you without your ever having to say a word?  Are you prepared to give an answer when asked where your joy and peace come from?  Will you be willing to reply or do you believe that faith is a personal matter that should be kept to yourself?  Let me remind you that Matthew 10:33 says, "But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven." It's pretty clear that our faith isn't a "personal" matter.    

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us second chances.  If we have missed an opportunity to show your love to someone through our actions, I pray today is the day we step out and do that.  May we always be ready to tell others the reason for our joy and peace - the true happiness that can only be found in you and is not dependent on circumstances.  You are the same yesterday, today and forever.   It's in your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy running!!
www.team413.org

I believe-Wes King

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJJE-TWe-g8&list=RDtq84Gr4FU_0&index=10