Do Good. Even if. Be Ready to Explain.

"Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear threats; do not be frightened. But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

–1 Peter 3:13-15

In a world that often misunderstands faith, one of the most powerful things a believer can do is simply do good.

Peter starts this section by asking, "Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?" It's a rhetorical question, but it sets the tone for how we live out our faith. Our first instinct, as followers of Christ, should always be to do good–to love well, to serve freely, and to live with integrity.

But the reality is, goodness doesn't always guarantee ease. That's where "even if" comes in.

Even if you suffer for doing what's right...

Even if you're misunderstood...

Even if others mock your faith...

You are still blessed.

This is where courage in Christ shines brightest. We don't do good only when it's rewarded. We do good because we follow the One who is good. And we trust that He sees every act of faithfulness, every quiet act of love, every sacrifice made in His name.

And then comes the calling: "Give a defense."

Not in arrogance or anger, but in humility and clarity. When someone asks why you're different–why you're peaceful when chaos surrounds you, why you forgive when others hold grudges, why you love the unloveable–be ready to explain. Be ready to say, "It's Jesus."

To give a defense doesn't mean to argue someone into faith. It means to be prepared to share your hope–the deep, soul-settling assurance that Christ is alive, that He loves us and that He's coming again.

And do it with gentleness. With respect. Not with pressure or pride, but with the same love Jesus showed to the woman at the well, to Nicodemus, to you.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be someone who is eager to do good. Give me the courage to stand firm, even if it costs me. And help me to always be ready to share the hope I have in You–with gentleness, love, and clarity. May my life be a testimony that points others to Your goodness. Amen.