“but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭CSB‬‬

I’m trying to think if anyone has ever asked me about my hope. I don’t think anyone has ever noticed me acting more optimistic or confident or hopeful than seems appropriate for the situation. Not enough to remark to me about it anyway.

I think the problem is that I’m a worrier. My uncle once told me that it’s better to be a pessimist because you’re never disappointed. And I remember thinking that was some really wise advice. It fit with my personality.

But that way of thinking does not suit a Christian at all. Instead of people looking at my life of hope and wanting to know Jesus, the reason for that hope, they see my life of stress and worry. Who would want to worship a god who leaves you in a state like that?! Not me.

My worrying is a sin. It’s something I struggle with often. So today’s verse is a tough one for me. I know Christ is holy. I know He is good and faithful and loving and trustworthy and generous and all-powerful… So why do I waste all this energy worrying?

The answer is I want to be in control. And I know I’m not so holy or powerful or good… So I worry.

Dear God,

Please forgive me for holding on to control and being afraid to trust you. Teach me to stop worrying and to live a life of hope so beautiful that people notice and see you and want to know you too. I’m sorry for my stubbornness. I want to do better. Be better. Remind me constantly to let go and trust your will and your way in all things.