1 Peter 3:14 Context
First Peter is a letter written by the apostle Peter to the Christians in several cities of modern-day Turkey.
Peter was one of Jesus’ closest friends during his earthly ministry, and after Jesus’ resurrection, he became one of the most prominent leaders of the early church. The focal point of the letter is Jesus Christ himself.
1 Peter 3:14 NLT meaning and explanation
Understanding 1 Peter 3:14 about suffering
1 Peter 3:14 Meaning
We’ve all suffered for wrong things we’ve done. When you’re a kid, you might get punished for lying or talking back, or fighting with your brother or sister.
But have you ever suffered for doing what is right? That happens too, but it’s so much harder to take. It’s unjust, and injustice has a special sting to it.
In this chapter, Peter talks about many practical things. He begins by discussing husband and wife relationships and how men and women should conduct themselves.
But then he makes a shift to talking about suffering. Namely, how to suffer well. We are told to be humble and rather than repay evil with evil, we are to repay evil with blessing.
How is such a thing possible? It goes against our very nature. Indeed, it does, which is why we must take on the nature of Christ.
But we also must keep in mind—if the world loves us and everyone is on our side, we’re likely doing something wrong.
The world hated Christ, and it will hate his followers as well. The verse for the day tells us that you are blessed when you suffer for good.
Why? Because you are within the will of God. All of this might mean very little if we didn’t have this promise just a couple of verses earlier:
“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil” (v. 12). God is watching and is on your side.
1 Peter 3:14 Bible verse about fear
1 Peter 3:14 Application
Is there anyone in your life who means you harm? Or perhaps a cultural system or belief that is working against you despite the fact that you’re trying to fight for what is right? Take courage.
God is watching and you are blessed. Pray for strength, peace, and humility.
“Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
1 Peter 3:14 commentary and devotional