Reading for Today - I Peter 3:13-17 - It is better to suffer for doing good

1 Peter 3:13-17 (ESV)

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.

If we suffer for doing good – God knows the truth. Peter writes if we “suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed.” It is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. We have the example of Christ.
We are also told to make a defense of the hope that is within us. When we teach others, it should be done with “gentleness and respect”. When I read this verse, I think of Paul’s advice that our speech be always with grace and seasoned with salt. How we teach others and defend the truth could impact how someone receives the word at that time. May we show respect and use gentleness. May we be gracious and share the good news of Christ. May our words build up others and lead them to Christ.