In what ways can we ensure our suffering is for righteousness, not sin? Setting the Scene “Indeed, none of you should suffer as a murderer or thief or any other wrongdoer or even as a meddler.” (1 Peter 4:15) What Peter Forbids • Overt crimes: murder, theft, “any other wrongdoer” • Hidden offenses: meddling—prying, stirring up trouble, sowing discord • Summary: if pain comes from these, it is deserved discipline, not righteous suffering (Hebrews 12:6) Practical Heart Checks • Obedience audit – Compare actions with clear commands (Exodus 20; Romans 13:9) – Ask, “Would this withstand Christ’s judgment seat?” (2 Corinthians 5:10) • Conscience clarity – “Keep a clear conscience” (1 Peter 3:16) – When conviction strikes, repent quickly (1 John 1:9) • Authority alignment – “Submit to every human authority” (1 Peter 2:13-15) – If discipline comes from breaking just laws, it is sin-suffering, not righteous Positive Pursuits That Invite Righteous Suffering • Living godly in Christ (2 Timothy 3:12) • Openly naming Christ (Matthew 10:32) • Doing good that exposes evil (John 3:20-21) • Serving sacrificially (1 Peter 4:10-11) • Standing for truth when culture shifts (Ephesians 6:13) Daily Practices to Stay on the Right Side of Suffering 1. Feed on Scripture—truth shapes motives (Psalm 119:11) 2. Pray for discernment—wisdom guards against avoidable trouble (James 1:5) 3. Choose integrity at work and home—no shady shortcuts (Colossians 3:23-25) 4. Speak with grace and clarity—no insults, slander, or gossip (Ephesians 4:29) 5. Serve the vulnerable—good deeds silence critics (1 Peter 2:15) 6. Stay out of quarrels—“the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome” (2 Timothy 2:24) When Suffering Arrives Anyway • Confirm it is undeserved by sin; if not, confess and correct. • Rejoice: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness” (Matthew 5:10-12). • Endure: “For it is commendable if someone endures pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God” (1 Peter 2:19-20). Living It Out Suffer only for doing right, never for doing wrong. Guard the heart, align with Scripture, and keep doing good; then any pain that comes will refine rather than reprimand, and the Savior will be glorified. |
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