Follow Good – Always (2)

Hello everyone,

How are you doing on this day? I hope well and bubbling in the Lord.

Primary Text

“Now, who is there to hurt you if you are zealous followers of that which is good? But even in case you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed (happy, to be envied). Do not dread or be afraid of their threats, nor be disturbed [by their opposition].” 1 Peter 3v13-14 (AMP)

First a question is posed that who would harm you if you follow after good? But Scripture continues that even if you do suffer because of righteousness – you are blessed. The MSG says “If with heart and soul you’re doing good, do you think you can be stopped? Even if you suffer for it, you’re still better off. Don’t give the opposition a second thought. Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master...” (1 Peter 3v13-15). It might be difficult to keep doing right in the midst of opposition, but remember “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” (2 Corinthians 4v17, NLT). Also, consider Jesus. He went about doing good, healing all those that were oppressed of the devil, for God was with Him (Acts 10v38), and yet the people shouted crucify Him. Beloved, God encourages us that we should not be afraid or dread the threats of opposition you face for righteousness sake, “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1v7 (AMP). So dear one “… let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6v9-10 (KJV).

Supplementary Text

“My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. If they say, “Come along with us, let’s lie in wait for innocent blood, let’s ambush some harmless soul; let’s swallow them alive, like the grave, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; we will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our houses with plunder; cast lots with us; we will all share the loot” – my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths;” Proverbs 1v10-15 (NIV)

Father, I thank You for You are good and Your mercies endure forever. Father, please grant me the grace to always do good and not be afraid regardless of the opposition I might face, in Jesus name, amen.