“14But even if you should suffer for righteousness sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” – 1 Peter 3:14-17 (ESV)
The final verse in the passage above is where I was directed this morning. I have struggled with the persecution that comes with doing the right thing and made to feel as though I am somehow in the wrong. Integrity, whereas right, does not always bring joy and adulation from others.
It is not our duty to change the approach just so people will like us. There is a falsehood that comes with that approach. We are liked for what we give the others, not for who we are. We should be treating others with respect and love as opposed to cowering to their wishes and acceptance.
When we do not understand we “lash” out as if to accuse others of being wrong. We will be persecuted for being followers of Christ. We will be treated unfairly for doing the right things and holding ourselves accountable, and expecting others to do the same. When we act out of love and care and respect as Christ does, it is difficult for others to understand our motives (to simply love, care, and respect).
When you approach a situation, are you apprehensive to just do good for fear of what others may “think” or say about you? Do you find yourself somehow thinking that you are the one that is “wrong” when you are doing good? Are you able to accept that it is better to suffer for doing good?
Trevor's Thoughts 