1 Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”
There may be times when we suffer for doing good even when we are doing our best to avoid it. Temptation will arise when persecution comes because we naturally want to flee pain. To stand up to persecution, we must look beyond the present moment of suffering to the blessing that awaits us. Peter may be reflecting on Jesus’ statement recorded in Matthew 5:10-12: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” How can suffering be a blessing? In this life, suffering produces perseverance (Romans 5:3). It strengthens our character. It toughens us up because we learn to trust God more because what earthly living offers us proves to be useful, futile, or even antagonistic. Peter quotes Isaiah 8:12 as a way to encourage his readers not to give in when they suffer. Their suffering is for a specific reason: they do what is right. They live out their holiness. The darkness around us does not like the light. Those who live holy lives through faith in Christ may experience suffering because unbelievers have always opposed God’s people. As culture grows in its desire for fleshly living, believers should expect more opposition. The blessings that will come will be a stronger faith. God may grant blessings beyond this life, as indicated in Revelation 20:4 and other passages.
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