It Is Good to Be Thankful: Appreciation makes the world a better place…
The Bible says to always be ready to give an answer to those who ask for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15 KJV). Some preachers use this verse to encourage us to study our Bibles so we’ll know the answers to biblical trivia questions. Others think it means we need to be intentionally leading people to Christ. Both concepts may have some merit.
However, perhaps the intent of this passage is that when others see Christians go through trials they are amazed at how well they handle what life throws at them. The reason for this is hope. Christian hope has a positive, encouraging energy that others can’t quite understand. This hope is attractive to a hurting world. This hope gives a peace that passes understanding even in the worst situations (Philippians 4:7). It’s natural that others would be curious and ask where that hope comes from. The answer is simple. It comes from Jesus.
Jesus is the answer to all the problems in this world. When people have questions, Jesus is the answer—and I shouldn’t be afraid to share personal examples of my life to show this if someone asks. Is someone sick? Jesus is the healer and great physician. Is someone seeking knowledge? Jesus is the great teacher. Is someone weary? Jesus gives us rest and comfort. Is someone worried? Jesus gives us peace. Does someone think nobody cares? I care and more importantly, Jesus cares. Does someone feel like a loser? The world may think we are losers but Jesus does not. His life in ours makes us winners regardless of circumstances.
I’m so thankful I don’t have to memorize the whole Bible to be an effective witness for Christ. I’m so thankful that someone’s salvation isn’t dependent on my ineptitude. When someone asks me a question about Christianity all I need to do is pray about it, be available, and gently point them to Jesus. Jesus is the answer!
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“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord...” ~ Psalms 92:1 (KJV)
