Do They See Hope?

1 Peter 3 Part 2: Suffering is an expected part of the Christian life. We, especially in the United States, feel that things are supposed to be pleasant for us. Suffering in this life, should be a tip off that this place is not our home. One day, if we are in Christ Jesus, we will be home and there will be no suffering. Our current job is not to make ourselves or others comfortable. Our job is to serve God, which will often lead to more suffering. When the suffering for doing good comes, we are to rejoice. We are to live in harmony and be gracious towards each other. God is actively involved in blessing those who do good and against those who do evil. In our hearts, we need to set apart Christ as Lord. When we set Him apart, we are doing His will. Let us remember, He as already won. We must always be prepared to give an answer to those who ask us about Jesus. Others should see a hope in us that prompts us to ask questions. People should be able to tell that we have hope and joy even when we feel lousy. Jesus died so that we could be saved. Jesus doesn’t need us on His team, but He loves us and He saved us.