AUGUST 28

1 Peter 3:15

                                   BE PREPARED!

Patrick loved fishing and always took a long time getting ready. He would check his tackle box to make sure all the lures and hooks were in order, and he would check his rod thoroughly. He’d also dig a good supply of worms from the nearby park. All his care paid off - he nearly always came home with at least one fish. Sometimes his friend Bryce went with him. They had great fun together - fishing, talking, and especially eating the picnic lunch they took with them.

When Patrick got home from fishing one day, his mother noticed he was unusually quiet. “Is something wrong?” she asked. “Well, when Bryce and I were eating the lunch you prepared today, he asked me why I always bow my head and close my eyes for a few minutes before I eat,” replied Patrick. “I told him I was praying, and he asked why I was doing that.”

“And what did you tell him?” asked Mom.

“I told him I was thanking God for our food,”said Patrick.“ Then Bryce asked me about church and God and all sorts of things, and I didn’t know what to say! I never really thought about why we go to church, or how I know God loves me.I just know,that’s all!”Patrick was obviously feeling frustrated.

“Oh, I see.” Mom was thoughtful. “Do you know what it means to be a ‘ fisher of men’?” she asked after a moment. “Sure,” answered Patrick. “It means to try to bring others to Jesus. We talked about that in Sunday school just a few weeks ago. When we were little kids, we sang a song about being fishers of men, too.”

“Well,” said Mom, “before you go fishing for fish, you always prepare very carefully. I’ve noticed you checking your rod and tackle - you’re very thorough. We need to be prepared when we’re fishing for men, too. Let’s think and talk about the things Bryce asked you. We can look up some Bible verses, too-becoming familiar with God’s Word is part of preparing to be a fisher of men. So let’s prepare, and then when the chance comes, you’ll be ready with an answer for Bryce - or for anyone who asks.”

Thought: What will you say if you’re asked why you believe in Jesus? Or why you go to church or read the Bible?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. And I know being familiar with the Bible and knowing where to locate passages about salvation, godly behavior, or attitudes will help prepare me for unexpected questions. So teach me to be a batter student of the Word. In Jesus’ name – amen.