1st Peter 3:13. “And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?”
WHO WILL HARM YOU? Watching with eyes runny and reddened with drink Trying to see if there is some mistake you will make That will ease their conscience even as a drink they take – “He’s a Christian, just see what he does!”
The job is difficult and many are tired The boss pushes hard he doesn’t want to be fired There is one among them whose work is by love for Christ inspired – “He’s a Christian, let’s see what he does!”
The heads are bent low, students are taking a test One has prepared long, she is doing her best She’s not cheating she is different from some of the rest – “She’s a Christian, watch what she does!”
We have nothing to fear when we do what is right We are under observation by day and by night People expect us to be different who “walk in the light” “We are Christians, be wise in all we do!”
Others look for excuses for doing what they know is wrong They look for failures in Christians they can lead along But they can not harm you when for Christ you stand strong – “We are Christians, and God knows what we do!”
“Holy God, I know you behold the evil and the good. May I be strengthened to commit myself to do the good in spite of what others may do, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
it is right for us to be ready to give an answer to those who want to know about our faith. But it is also important we do so in a right way with a proper attitude. A respectful, calm answer from one who has truly acknowledged the Lord God as the One who is control of our life, is what is expected from one who has sanctified Him in our heart. The logical "answer" (apologia; apologetic) doesn't happen by wishful thinking but by careful learning from the scriptures. An unbeliever usually acts and reacts without evidence of knowledge and faith. The gentleness and respect of a
Christian who give a sensible, biblical answer regarding their personal faith and hope, lends the weight of personal concern for the questioning person's welfare.
Meekness and a good conscience go together and will enable us to define that which is good. We may not be able to keep from being slandered by those who say what is untrue, but by good behavior we are helped to avoid anything that would dishonor our Lord. A good conscience and commitment to righteousness puts the words of malicious gossip in a bad light. God's permissive will may allow the suffering that comes from unjust accusations. He sometimes has a purpose behind the "deep waters" we are called to pass through. He knows what is needed even though it means our discomfort and suffering because He knows the "big picture."