But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. 

Do not fear their threats ; do not be frightened. 

But in your hearts revere 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.

1 Peter 3:13-15 NIV

I've used the last sentence out of context often.

But the context is important.

This letter is written to the church scattered.

And they're being persecuted.

And he's talking about not just doing good, but suffering for it.

Suffering that's quite different to being asked a difficult question by the person in the seat next to you on a plane (do you remember when we flew places?)

This seems like if I lose my job or my business for doing what is right, if I get arrested for doing good, if people smear my name, "cancel" me because I've done what's right, give up my "rights", money, resources, time. 

Get asked by my friends 

"why are you wasting your time with "them"?"

"Why are you protesting for that?"

Lose my friendship for doing good.

Then it's important to know the hope that you have (even if no one asks) and to be able to share it with those who do.

What we believe, the hope that we have, the Living Hope, is important as it motivates and drives our choices and actions.

Especially when it costs.

#dogood

#lovepeople

#evenifitcosts

#shareyourhope