| Suffering For Doing Right |
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| Written by Mark Junkans |
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1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble. 9Don't be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God's chosen ones, and he will bless you. The Scriptures say, 10"Do you really love life? Do you want to be happy? Then stop saying cruel things and quit telling lies. 11Give up your evil ways and do right, as you find and follow the road that leads to peace. 12The Lord watches over everyone who obeys him, and he listens to their prayers. But he opposes everyone who does evil." 13Can anyone really harm you for being eager to do good deeds? 14Even if you have to suffer for doing good things, God will bless you. So stop being afraid and don't worry about what people might do. 15Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. When was the last time you suffered for doing what was right? For me, I can't remember. Does paying a parking ticket on time count? I am so good at avoiding doing the right thing, especially when it could create an inconvenience in my life. God tells you to "treat everyone with kindness, regardless of how they treat you. Give up your evil ways and do right, as you find and follow the road that leads to peace." Doing right is more than just doing good deeds for others, it is also doing the right thing. It is speaking up for those who can't defend themselves. It is advocating on behalf of others who are being treated unjustly. It is working hard to change people's attitudes towards Christians, not by crying out when offended, but by quietly and patiently being faithful witness to the love of Christ. "Honor Christ and let Him be the Lord of your life." In everything you do ask the questions, "Does this honor Christ? Does this help my mission? Is this right?" Go and do right, God's power at work within you enables you to do so. Stop making excuses and let God's grace change you from the inside out. |





