Why Do We Suffer?

And who will harm you if you are deeply committed to what is good? But even if you suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed, but honour the Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience. Lear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame. 1 Peter 3:13-16

As I read the verse: ' and who will harm you?' I am mindful of a quiz show I watch called 'The Eggheads.' The Eggheads are the best quiz team in the UK and each time they defeat their opponents the compere says: "but who will defeat you?" He is constantly reaffirming their excellence in quizzing.

Peter, in this verse, in confirming the safety we have in Christ from the suffering brought on by bad behaviour and bad choices. He then goes on to say: ' but even if you suffer for righteousness, you are blessed.'

Is Peter saying we only suffer for righteousness or as a consequence for bad behaviour? It looks like it doesn't it? That puts the onus right, squarely, on our shoulders to walk in righteousness. 

I think I could add a third. We suffer when we fail to know and appropriate all the authority and freedom we have in Christ.

One way we can do this is by not listening to negative feelings and thoughts and choosing to believe what the word of God says and walking in God's truth, not our feelings. Amen!