For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears turned to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against evildoers. 1 Peter 3:12 NABRE
Peter in this section of the letter to the communities in Asia Minor is advising them in Christian conduct. The letter is written to Christians and Peter tells them they should all be of one mind, the mind of Christ. They should be sympathetic, loving toward one another, compassionate and humble. It is these characteristics that others see and recognize Christ in Christians. Peter goes on to tell them not to return evil for evil or insult for insult. This is behavior that is counter to common culture but it is the behavior that Jesus exhibited when evil or insult was pointed toward him. Peter wants the communities (and us) to return a blessing when we are insulted or become the victim of evil. Disciples are called to provide blessings, we receive blessings from Christ and when we share blessings will inherit additional blessings. It is a must that Christians in all cases bless others, even those who would wish us evil or insult. Peter shares words from Psalm 34. We who have a loving life and seeing good days must keep our tongue from evil and deceit. We must turn evil to good, seek peace and follow it. We read the quoted verse, where Peter speaks of God’s eyes and ears, we can understand God sees and hears everything. God knows the struggle and suffering of believers and listens and responds with help. But for those who do evil God will turn away and not see their deeds, good or bad. God does not hear their cries for help.
We convince others to follow Christ through our behavior. We must always do good and share blessings. If we imitate Christ, others will see and believe.
Do you behave as a Christian? Do you share blessings for insults or do you feel you must insult in return?
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