Last week we learned about the hope that we have even in the face of suffering. The words from the Apostle Peter today pick up right on the heels of last week. What if we actually suffer for doing good? For example, you show Christ-like kindness to someone and they respond with spite. Or let’s say you demonstrate humility which you’ve learned from Jesus; then someone calls you naïve or out of touch. These are the trials we face because we belong to and follow a Savior who experienced these trials and much worse. And our response is not to be defensive. Rather, we give our testimony with lives of gentles and respect regardless of the reactions we may receive. And we know why!

Jesus died and rose. He has made his defense for us before the throne of God, and we are declared righteous. He is the way, the truth, and the life for us. He made that declaration over us in our baptism which washed us clean eternally. Therefore, cheer up, dear Christian! Your life is set up to show the world the living Christ. Always be ready in any trial to make a statement about your faith. And the best way to do that is with you life of kindness, gentleness, humility, and respect.