Scripture reference: 1 Peter 3:13-17

13And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? 14But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 16Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 17For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

What is suffering for Christ?

There’s a reason the world is in a mess. Believers are not doing what we are supposed to be doing which is suffering for Christ.

People of the world are willing to suffer for their wants but are not willing to suffer for Christ. They sacrifice to gain earthly possessions, and often their entire family is made to suffer. The world thinks suffering for Christ gains us nothing, but that is not true! Believers who suffer for Christ gain everything. Treasures of the world are temporary, but life with Christ in Heaven is eternal.

Many people are greedy, selfish, and prideful because they haven’t heard the Gospel. Believers are not witnessing and sharing the Gospel of Christ. We need to witness in person and not rely on those seeking the truth to find it on their own.

We also need to remember good works do not equate to witnessing, or even to our personal salvation. In Matthew 7:21-23 Jesus said: “21Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

How to witness:

o Accept Jesus as your Savior and you will be filled with the Holy Spirit. If we are born again, no one can harm us. (1 Peter 3:13-14)

o Let the Holy Spirit guide your speech. In Matthew 10:19 Jesus said: “But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.”

o Be merciful and respectful. (1 Peter 3:15)

o Keep a good conscience. (1 Peter 3:16)

o Be willing. Serving the Lord requires us to get out of our comfort zone.