Speaking against instead of changing

Passage – keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are spoken against, those who abuse the good behavior flowing from your union with the Messiah may be put to shame. 1 Peter 3:16

Rested in my own words – You will be spoken against, abuse for your good behavior that flows from your relationship with Christ. Per conscious clear so that it is them that are put to shame.

Application to my own life – When, the Holy Spirit knew that it was not a matter of if, but when, that people would turn against followers. Our good behavior flows out of our relationship with Christ and His grace empowering us to live holy tends to convict those around us. They will speak out before being ready to change. It is easier to defend yourself by making someone else the villain than to admit your faults or desires are wrong.

Healthy eating is a struggle for me, so it’s easier to pick on the one who eats healthy as a way to feel my way doesn’t need to change. This is a small example but the discipline it takes to eat right is lacking in my life. I have not surrendered it to God’s grace fully. It is my behavior that needs to change, speaking against those who are more disciplined is not helpful to me well being.

Your response back to God – Lord, forgive me for the times I have been the attacker. Have bitterness set in where I have been attacked. Live life and relationship with you with a clear conscience.