Blessed are they who praise
1 Peter 3:13-18 (NIV) 13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.
There is that word “suffer” again. I need to tell you I have never met anyone who wants to suffer. Yet, suffering is an inescapable part of life. In the scriptural context Peter cautions us to do what is right regardless of the cost and then the spiritual blessings will be greater than any physical threat.
Peter’s advice to be prepared to share with all who ask the reason for our hope is similar to what we refer to as an elevator testimony. You know, a statement of your faith that is so short it can delivered while on an elevator. And may I say that when we share our story of grace, then we are blessed with even more grace.
May we fix our eyes on Jesus and the blessed hope of eternal salvation whether in good times or bad. In everything give the King of Kings all of the praise.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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Seeking Holiness 