Both Au and I are passionate about the work the Institute for Cultural Communicators does in getting people ready to speak. In fact, both Au and I have had the opportunity to present to audiences in both Singapore and Indonesia this month.
Trustworthy and thoughtful character; proficient speaking competency; and meaningful human connections all contribute towards getting ready to speak. Competence, character, and connection can be seen in those who are genuinely ready to speak. At the Ready to Speak conferences, we have been encouraged to think afresh of the hope we have within us and to be prepared to share that hope with all who ask. And this message of being ready to speak transcends cultures, generations, and languages.
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. 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
We are digging deep into what it means to be prepared to give an answer for the hope that we have. Here are some of the questions we are asking:
- Are our lives filled with hope that would make others curious and want to know more?
- If no one asks us for the reason for our hope, does it mean they see something other than hope in us? And why is that?
- And when they ask, do we respond with gentleness and respect?
It is easy to look at the news headlines (from any country!) and wonder what people see when they see people of faith. Do they hunger to know more? Or are they turned off and tuned out to what Jesus-followers have to share? Are we known as people who are filled with hope and know why we have that hope? And do we speak and behave with gentleness and respect when all around us is arrogance and aggression, ignorance and apathy?
There are more Ready to Speak conferences being held this year, and if you are interested, there are both online and in-person opportunities. We are both growing in being ready to speak and welcome you on this journey with us. Reach out to us if you want to know more.