1 Peter 3:13 – 16 (NIV)

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?  But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.  “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.”  But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.  But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

If you were walking down a street and you noticed a person walking in front of you dropped a one hundred dollar bill onto the street, what would you do?  Would you pick up the money, track that person down and return it or would you pick up the money and put it in your pocket?  Surely, you could find a good use for that money.  One hundred dollars is nothing to sneeze at.  On the other hand, as Christians, the right thing to do would be to return that money to its rightful steward.  Taking that action would certainly qualify as a good deed. 

Doing what is right is pleasing to God.  Blessings can be found through righteous behavior.  Those who desire to do what is good are protected by God.  He protects those whose acts are honorable. 

As we strive to live righteously, we can expect the Evil One to challenge us.  However, Scripture tells us that we need not be frightened.  We do not need to fear what the Evil One might do because Jesus Christ has already conquered the world.  Therefore, no real harm can befall us from doing what is good.  Even while suffering, Christians are still privileged and blessed because of their relationship with God.

Christ provides us with the best model for how to continue to do good during difficult times.  Because Christ lives within us, we have access to His power that can overcome the afflictions of this world.  Continue to do good for God’s sake and pursue peace and harmony.  This pleases God and you will be blessed.