”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).
We bless each other first and foremost with our words. By saying a prayer for the other person, or by using a positive greeting. Peter asked his fellow believers to be lenient, loving, united, merciful and kind to one another. (1 Peter 3:8) The words we use play an important role in this (1 Peter 3:10-11). Peter asked this of believers who were persecuted and treated with hostility because of their belief in Jesus. Could you hold your tongue instead of giving a sharp reply to a hateful comment? Could you continue to greet people kindly while you are laughed at you behind your back. Or whilst being refused the help you need? Such responses are not easy. But that is precisely the way to show what Jesus is like, and how His followers should behave. We should refrain from putting others down on social media, or from striking back with poisonous words. Thus we can show strength to the world around us: and do good to others and not cause harm.
What do you learn today from Peter’s words? Where do you need Jesus’ help in order to do this?