Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. – 1 Peter 3:9
As a follower of Christ, you are always being observed. Your children watch how you deal with situations at home, whether or not you are consistent in your discipline, or the love and care you show toward your spouse. Your co-workers listen to how you communicate with others and evaluate your general work ethic.
In today’s verse and the one before it, Peter lists godly virtues that all Christians are called to exemplify. You are directed to seek unity of spirit with other believers, show compassion, love others, and be tenderhearted and humble. Jesus answered the evil actions and insulting language that were directed at Him with kindness and love. You are called to a higher standard than the world expects or understands. Your responses to mistreatment from others will require God’s assistance. When you do not retaliate or hold a grudge, you show that you believe in God’s claim as the holy and righteous Judge (Deuteronomy 32:35; Romans 12:19; Hebrews 10:30).
Not only are you to offer good in response to evil, but you are to bless those that revile you, pray for those who may hate you, and share the Good News of Jesus when the opportunity is given to you. Lastly, forgive. Remembering that you have received the divine, unmerited blessing of complete forgiveness from Holy God, forgiving one who has wronged you should be a natural consequence. And the Lord will bless you for following His direction.
This world is filled with double standards. Let your life be an example of God’s unchangeable goodness and love. Hold fast to His Word so that you are guided in the ways of Christ. Then pray that those in government will seek the Lord and find Him so they may have the peace only He can give.
Today’s Verse: 1 Peter 3:9
Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Peter 3:8-17
8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For
“Whoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
