Scripture: 1 Peter 3:13–22

Devotion

Have you ever felt like you’ve done everything right in a situation, but people still point out the flaws in what you did? This is what Christians were experiencing in Peter’s time; while doing what was good, there were times when they also had to “suffer for righteousness” (v.14). Whether this was actual persecution built into their society or simply neighbors critical of their Christian lifestyle is unclear, but the response Peter offers is abundantly clear: “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” (v.15).

When we look to the sufferings of Jesus, which were far greater than anything we will ever experience, it gives us perspective and hope. Remembering that Jesus endured the cross for my sin humbles me and helps me respond with grace. All of this, in a strange way, also blesses us, for Peter tells us that it is better to suffer for doing God’s will than to suffer for anything else.

The confidence that Jesus gives us to suffer boldly, however, should not lead to pride or arrogance, since that would only make those who accuse us more justified in their actions. Instead, Peter lays out a much more Christlike (and probably harder) way to handle opposition, with “gentleness and reverence,” so that we can keep a clear conscience (v.16). Instead of focusing on being “right” as we set an example of conduct in our community, we should behave with gentleness, so that God’s character wins out in the end, ultimately pointing people to Christ, who empowers us to do so.

A Personal Prayer

Is there someone in your circle, a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker, who is critical of your Christian walk and convictions? Write down their name. Over the next few days and weeks, as we continue to pray, ask God to bless that person and to give you opportunities to show them love with gentleness and reverence through your character.

Pray for Our Neighbors: GraceWorks Ministries

GraceWorks Ministries is committed to addressing poverty in Williamson County by providing essential resources like food, clothing, housing support, and financial assistance. GraceWorks has outgrown its space and is praying for a new location with more room to serve families in need.

• Pray for continued resources and support to meet the growing needs in Williamson County, enabling GraceWorks to serve each family with compassion.
• Ask God to raise up dedicated volunteers to sustain and strengthen GraceWorks’ programs and services.
• Pray for strength and encouragement for the staff and leadership, equipping them to make a lasting impact on the lives they serve.

Pray for the Nations: Global Workers | Steven & Kaori

Steven and Kaori serve in Southeast Asia, planting churches among the Deaf and building gospel-centered communities across the region. Their ministry focuses on reaching Deaf individuals with the good news of Jesus, discipling new believers, and strengthening Deaf churches in Asia.

• Pray for God to lead Steven and Kaori to Deaf individuals who are ready to encounter the gospel.
• Ask God to grow healthy, believing communities among the Deaf and expand the reach of the gospel across Southeast Asia and Japan.
• Pray for health, energy, and a deep sense of God’s presence as Steven and Kaori continue serving faithfully in challenging seasons.