We are naturally averse to suffering. But believers are called to suffer for Christ; thus it is a privilege to suffer for Him. (Note: Suffering as a result of our sin is not considered suffering for Christ.) Suffering for Christ may take any form that is in accordance to God’s will, eg: ill health, natural disaster, etc. When going through such sufferings, we must not be bitter or angry. 1 Peter 3:13-17 describes the attitude we are to have when suffering for Christ. One is to be “happy” (1 Pet 3:14), which conveys the idea of “gladness.” This is possible only if we are blameless or righteous; and it is the wicked who seek our harm. Pursue after good, and we can be glad when we suffer for righteousness’ sake. If we suffer because of our own wickedness, irresponsibility, arrogance, pride, etc., we cannot be “happy” in our suffering. For such suffering is God’s chastisement of us.

The Bible’s meaning of “happy” is different from our understanding of its meaning today. “Happy” means blessed. It is not just an emotion or feeling of happiness. It is similar to the word “blessed” in Matthew 5:10-12. This happiness/ gladness/joyfulness is not something that is superficial or temporal. It is the inward joy that we have. It is the quiet gladness we have when we know that the Lord is with us. The two reasons given for us to be glad are: (a) the reward in heaven, and (b) our identification with Christ. We are not to be afraid of the enemy’s terror and threatening as we have the Lord with us and in our heart.

When we suffer for Christ and are “happy,” others may see in us the reason of our hope (1 Pet 3:15). We are to sanctify (to regard as holy, to consecrate) the Lord God in our heart, i.e. we must esteem/regard God as holy. In our sufferings, we must not tarnish or shame God’s name. The word “answer” (1 Pet 3:15) means “to defend.” It does not mean that we are to be defensive, but we are to defend the reason of our hope. This is only possible when we are living a consistent Christian life. The words “meekness” and “fear” describe gentleness (not weakness) and reverence (sober and sombre spirit) respectively. Speaking the truth impatiently, arrogantly, harshly or unlovingly will hinder our witness and testimony.

We are to suffer with a clear conscience (1 Pet 3:16-17). When our enemies falsely accuse us, they will be ashamed when our testimony proves them wrong. When someone accuses us, we must reflect and search our hearts to make sure that our conduct is blameless, and that we have not sinned. We do not have to retaliate. The Lord is the One who will judge. A clear conscience can only come from a consistent Christian life.