So, prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Pet 1:13 (NLT)

Life is full of surprises. Some surprise moments cause an immediate reaction that seem out of our control. These are often referred to as reflex actions. Some reflex actions are good for personal protection, safety, or survival. Other times, reflex actions can project attitudes, prejudice, preferences, or poor dispositions that often lead to arguments and unhealthy confrontations. While we may not be able to control the outcome of surprises, all make choices to react or respond. Reactions often reflect emotions, while responses are thoughtful preparation. The scripture passage is an instruction to prepare and guide our thoughts and actions in the hope of Jesus Christ. The child of God is instructed to “prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control.” We are first called to prepare. Prepare to live according to God’s principles and make His Word the foundation for all decisions in life. This means to surrender our thoughts and emotions to Him. Next, we are to “exercise” our preparation. In spiritual living that means to be guided by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit guides the child of God into all truth (Jn 16:13) and away from personal lust and emotional implosions “so that you do not do the things you wish” (Gal 5:16-17). The nature man is weak to temptation, burns with desire and an appetite for personal pleasure, while drawn into the black hole of lust and pride (1 Jn 2:16). Controlled by circumstances, confused by wayward choices, and distracted with worldly pleasures, we find ourselves powerless to live out God’s purposes and to enjoy His abundant blessings. God did not save us to live in wretched defeat (Rom 7:24) but to live the abundant life by the power of the Holy Spirit which is the gift of God. The child of God is not left to react to the world but respond to the world with the love of God. Dear friend, respond by the power of the Holy Spirit to tell others of “your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.” Let it not be a surprise when people ask of the hope of salvation that they see in you, but “prepare your minds” to respond, “speaking the truth in love” (Eph 4:15). And finally, if your actions are challenged and your emotions stirred, “prepare…and exercise self-control.” Seek to be filled with the Spirit and led by the Spirit. Ask God to give you self-control. My friend, God has planned abundant blessings for you. Walk in His blessing and give honor and glory to His Son, Jesus Christ. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.