2 Peter 1:15 So I will work hard to make sure you always remember these things after I am gone.

One of the hard lessons I have learned as a preacher is that I do not get to choose what someone remembers when I speak. At times people remember the introduction or the illustration but forget the main point I was trying to instill. I have also discovered that there are three messages that come out of my mouth every time I speak. There is “what I think” I am saying, followed by what “people think” I am saying and then there is actually “what I said.” I have been credited with saying things that I never intended to communicate. This is both a curse and a blessing.

This phenomenon does not does not just happen to preachers. This happens to each of us. You never know what your kids, coworkers and acquaintances are going to remember if you are not very strategic in delivering you intended messages. To ensure you are passing on the intended message and your convictions you must learn to drive home the truth you want remembered. Peter said, “I work hard to make sure you always remember these things.”

Here are three ways we can work hard and ensure we are passing on the right message.

Repeat what you want remembered. Often what gets repeated gets remembered. There are songs in my head that I hate and yet cannot forget because I heard them so much. After each phrase in high school my Spanish teacher would say “repetir en Espanol Por Favor.” I remember very little from that class but I do know how to say “repeat please in Spanish” because she used that phrase so often. Don’t share your deepest convictions once and call it done. Share them over and over again.

Live an Example. One of the best ways people learn is by example. You and I are to be the example of Jesus in this world and must exemplify every conviction we hope to instill. The picture your life provides may be worth more than one thousand words spoken.

Ask questions. What you say and what others hear are often miles apart. Take time and ask questions regarding the things you desire to be passed on. Ensure that your listener is receiving what you are transmitting. Jesus often opened people’s mind to His message by questioning what they had heard.

Today’s Challenge: Don’t leave the great task of sharing your faith and convictions to chance. Intentionally impart the message of Jesus to those around you.