Tag: \patient suffering for righteousness
Gentleness and Respect
Scripture reading for November 11: 1 Peter 3
“Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but 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, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” 1 Peter 3: 13-17
In our culture, gentleness and respect for others who mistreat us is almost unheard of. There is the desire for revenge and bad words and name-calling is often the response. This may escalate to acts of revenge, violence, or even murder. Early Christ followers were living in a similar pagan culture and Peter had advice for how believers should prepare themselves to respond.
First, Peter told those suffering, that if it was for righteousness, they would be blessed by God. His presence and peace would guard their hearts and minds. They were not to fear those causing the suffering, but understand that God was at work in their lives and would use those suffering unjustly to reflect the peace of Jesus and joy of salvation to them. If they asked the reason for their peace, they should be ready to share the Gospel with them in gentleness and reverence. It is God’s kindness that will lead them to repentance. (Romans 2:4)
A second reason is to have a good conscience towards God. When we patiently suffer and entrust ourselves to God, we bring shame and conviction on those who are reviling us and our good behavior. We also have God’s blessing of His peace and presence which God uses to spark repentance in those slandering us. If we were to respond like the world, our conscience would bring us under conviction and those slandering us would not see anything different than the culture they live in.
In examining your own actions and attitudes towards those who slander you, do you reflect this world view presented by Peter? What kind of blessings from God can come to those suffering injustice patiently? Has anyone ever asked you to share your hope and joy?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Jesus Christ’s example of suffering injustice with prayer and patience. Help me to patiently endure unjust suffering and respond by living in Your peace and joy. Increase my ability to wait for the opportunity to share the reason for my hope with gentleness and respect. Amen.