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 (NIV)
"You are the salt of the earth ... You are the light of the world."Matthew 5:13-14 (NIV)
You salt the earth with your words.
Let your speech be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.Colossians 4:6 (NIV)
Words of Encouragement
When you talk, do not say harmful things, but say what people need—words that will help others become stronger. Then what you say will do good to those who listen to you.Ephesians 4:29 (NCV)
Words of Truth
We will lovingly follow the truth at all times—speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly—and so become more and more in every way like Christ.Ephesians 4:15 (TLB)
Words of Peace
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
Words of Hope
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.Romans 15:13 (NIV)
Words of the Gospel
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)
ACTION PLAN: What kinds of speech above are the easiest to flow from you? Which ones are not? If you aren't sure, ask someone close to you. Then, pray and think through what type of speech your 'One Life' needs most from you right now. Make a point to give them those types of words this week, whether by message, call, or in-person.
You light the world with your deeds.
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."Matthew 5:14–16 (NIV)
Deeds of Compassion
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
Deeds of Mercy
"Love your enemies. Pray for those who hurt you."Matthew 5:44 (NCV)
Deeds of Generosity
Command [God's people] to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18 (NIV)
Deeds of Selflessness
Love one another with brotherly affection, giving precedence and showing honor to one another.Romans 12:10 (AMP)
ACTION PLAN: Memorize Romans 12:10. How can you honor and bring dignity to those closest to you this week? Write a note, do their chore for them, let them decide what to watch, or something that will mean a lot to them. Ask God to give you ideas, then practice with someone close to you.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Colossians 3:17 (NIV)