Today’s Reading | 1 Peter 3:8-22
Blessed by Suffering
Today, Peter continues the topic of how to respond to suffering which is undeserved. That is, being punished for something we did not do. In this passage, we are challenged in our responses to those who are evil toward us or insult us. Peter instructs us to continue to respond with kindness and goodness toward those who are in opposition to us. We must understand that we have been called to face this kind of suffering. In fact, in verse fourteen, Peter tells us that if we face this kind of opposition, we are blessed. It is helpful to realize that our godly responses to this kind of suffering will often result in opportunities to share Christ with those who observe us. Peter tells us that we need to be prepared to share with people the reason we can respond with kindness. He tells us to not only be ready with the right message, but also be ready with the right attitude, with gentleness and respect. We need to be able to respond to unjust suffering in the way Peter has described. And then, we should be able to provide an answer for our hope. Finally, we must be prepared to share the message with the right attitude. Do you know what to say?
Today’s Questions
Say What?
What can you do to prepare yourself for unjust suffering?
So What?
What can you do to prepare yourself to give an answer?
Now What?
What can you do to prepare yourself to respond with the right attitude?
Then What?
In light of this passage, what personal commitment can you make?