Living a Life That Honors GodEsimerkki

Being a Witness by Doing Good

We should always be prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks us for a reason for our hope and faith and love (1 Peter 3:15). But sometimes discussions don’t help. Our words won’t always convince people of the truth. In such cases, it makes no sense to keep “nagging”. But the apostle Peter mentions another option: we should “put to silence the ignorance of foolish people” by doing good. People should have nothing evil to say about us, but instead see our good works. That will be a powerful testimony of God’s love at work in us.

The Heidelberg Catechism, a classical instruction in the Christian faith, phrases this idea as follows: “… that we so order our whole life, our thoughts, words, and deeds, that Your Name may not be blasphemed, but honored and praised on our account” (Lord’s Day 47, question 122).

If we want to be a witness of the faith, we should not only focus on our words but also on our own behavior in daily life. Our lifestyle can support or damage our testimony. It can attract people or turn them away.

Are you aware that people are watching you? Does that influence your behavior?