I Peter 3:1-22
Occasionally lifting a few words or phrases out of its larger context can twist the original meaning of those words. We often see verses taken out of context so that the speaker or writer can make his or her point. But sometimes that new meaning can be intriguing; consider verse 21, edited by the omission of parenthetical and even direct phrases: Baptism … [is]… an appeal to God for a good conscience… Typically we think of baptism as our acknowledgement of Jesus’ salvation and His Lordship in our lives – and no doubt it is (or should be). But I had not considered that our baptism is also our crying out to God for Him to help us, to guide us into this new life. Baptism has always seemed to me more like the confessional – humble and contrite – than the counselor’s office, where we are seeking help in our lives as we move forward. I don’t want to make too much of all that, but it is an intriguing thought to me.
See also: October 23 / I Peter 3:1-12; October 24 / I Peter 3:13-22
My attention was drawn to v. 9, “Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate… Instead pay them back with a blessing.” I will admit my reaction to harsh words or actions toward me is to lash out at the person, usually not right away, but after the harsh words or deeds rattle around in my head for a while and I work up a good ole’ resentment. I have taken the words from Peter in v. 9 to heart, and I now ask God’s blessing on the offender. I have found this action brings humility, and I am able to forgive the offense and the offender. Many times what I perceived as an offense is really my ego getting bruised again. But if I do not forgive, that bruise (resentment) can grow and grow and fester into hatred. Not a good place for me (or anyone) to be! It blocks God’s love and hardens my heart.