(The following is the November 11 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Peter 3 and pay close attention to verses 13-17.)
Even if we do good and not evil, we can suffer at the hands of governing authorities failing to perform their duties as God designed (Rom. 13:1-7) or from individuals or organizations opposed to Christ. Should we suffer, we can at least ensure it’s for doing God’s will and not evil: “Who then will harm you if you are devoted to what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be intimidated, but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. Yet do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that when you are accused, those who disparage your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil” (vv. 13-17).
Consider those who suffer from doing evil. They choose to commit the act, suggesting a heart separated from God. They harm other people or property, causing unjust suffering to others. If the justice system does its job, they might pay a high price for their evil – reputation, restitution, imprisonment, loss of employment, or even death. When they die, God judges them justly for eternity.
Compare that with those suffering for doing what God declares good. There may be physical, heartbreaking consequences, but they are temporary. A better day is coming. They endure unjust suffering with a clear conscience, and God ultimately vindicates them.
None of us are eager to suffer, but if we must, let it be for doing what God defines as good.
Next Step:
When have you suffered for doing evil? For doing God’s will? How did the experiences compare?
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