I think Peter gives a great summary of the whole book of Colossians with this sentence: “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord” (1 Peter 3:15a). If we consciously, intentionally, willfully, seriously exalt Jesus as Lord in our hearts, then we can say “He’s It!” What in our hearts has to bend its knee in submission in order for Jesus to be Lord in our inner place of desires, dreams, and identity?
Peter’s next sentence gives an example of what it looks like when Jesus is set apart as Lord in our hearts. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have…”
Isn’t it interesting that Peter immediately connects Christ’s lordship in our hearts with a readiness to profess him to others? I guess our faith is not supposed to be a private, secret relationship. In fact, Paul connects public confession with salvation when he said, “if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).
Ever wonder how to measure the health of your faith? There are several indicators. However, it is clear that one of them is our willingness to verbalize our faith at the right time and in the appropriate way as the Holy Spirit leads.
What opportunity can you make the most of this week?
Kip
