Today's reading: 1 Peter 2:18-24
When someone doesn't treat me fairly or when I feel I have been intentionally wronged, my thoughts (and sometimes my actions) immediately go to righting the situation. My sense of justice kicks in! But that human response doesn't line up with what God desires and expects from me.
In 1 Peter 2:18-24, Peter challenges us to follow the example of Jesus when someone treats us unjustly--not lashing out, not defending ourselves, not responding in kind--but instead entrusting the situation to God "who judges justly" (vs. 23). I especially like the straight forward explanation we see in verse 20. "For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God."
Do you find it difficult to respond without anger, sarcasm, and defensive words when you are treated unfairly? Why is it important not to react this way? What has helped, and does help, you respond in a godly manner when you find yourself in a tough situation? Tami
One of the hardest things to do sometimes but it reveals our obedience and trust in God and releases and compels God to move on our behalf.
What Peter is pointing out here is that our conduct needs to reflect God's character, no matter the situation. This isn't to state, however, that we should roll over whenever we're wronged. Humility can be present while we seek justice for a situation in which we've been harmed. There are times when we should take it on the chin, but there are also times when we need to rightly strive to correct an injustice, not just for ourselves, but for others who may suffer similar wrongs.