Remember that question people would ask you when you were young? "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Kids reply with something like doctor or a mermaid. Little did I know that question was prepping me for a bigger question, "What are your plans after college?" This seemingly innocent question is a loaded explosive to a Next Generation Daughter. First, it assumes you are going to college, and second it assumes a career will be the answer. College questions and future questions seem like harmless small talk to the questioner, but to whom the question is directed, it's a constant battle of fighting worldly beliefs. As gears grind to try and explain a spiritual conviction, girls become frustrated and worn down from guilt attacks and constant pressure. I have talked with many of you, so I know I am not the only one who struggles with this.

 

Well, for every question, there is an answer, right? So what is the answer? 1 Peter 3:15 says- "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:"

 

Before you answer "The Question", analyze the questioner. Who is asking? Are they asking to make small talk? Will they understand what I believe? Will they challenge my answer?

It's hard to have one generic answer, but there are some guidelines to follow.

 

1. Know what you believe and have a solid foundation. If the world sees you as weak prey, their questioning will be constant and draining. When answering people, know that sometime pleasing God means disapproval of others. Make sure they know you are deeply grounded in your convictions.

2. Pray about your answer. Ask the Lord to give you words to speak. "Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth." (Jeremiah 1:9)

3. Develop your answer. When developing your answer, here is a good outline that will hopefully help-

I.                    Arrange your words in a way that gets straight to the point and don't leave room for them to add negative remarks.

II.                 What you believe is a spiritual conviction, give a spiritual answer. Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

III.               Have a meek and gentle spirit. Your answer will mean nothing if your attitude is not sweet and feminine.

4. Avoid making close friends with people who will not support or who will try to corrupt your beliefs. "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners." 1Corinthians 15:33


5. And when you have done everything, just stand firm and let God handle the rest.  Ephesians 6:13 "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."

When it comes to future plans, remember only God knows what will happen, so all we have to do is be faithful to His calling.

Sometimes not giving an answer is also an answer. Don't get shoved on the defensive. Joyfully share what you believe and tell them how and why you chose the lifestyle you have chosen. Don't be afraid to live a life above the line and never lower your standards. Sometimes people react negatively, putting you down trying to build themselves up. When they say you are missing out, they mean they can't follow your lifestyle, follow theirs instead. Convictions are not restrictions, they are road signs to keep us on the straight and narrow.

Your faithfulness is not in vain. We know the joy and blessings that have come from our decision to obey God and though it may feel like it sometimes, you are not alone in your choice for a feminine home life. :) 2 Thessalonians 3:13 "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing."