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 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. 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. For it is better, if it is God’s will,to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. ~1 Peter3:13-18 (NIV)
How many of you make better decisions around those who are older or that you respect more?
Why do you? Some answers from our teens: they don't want to disappoint, they know what's right/better, fear of punishment/don't want to get in trouble/lectured
What are those excuses? Self-helping excuses, those that benefit you.
Do you feel that you still benefit if no one sees?
We generally tend to do nice things if we benefit or are being watched.
God is watching you even when no one else is around.
Fearing people is a dangerous trap,but trusting the Lord means safety. ~Proverbs 29:25 (NLT)
Don't do things for yourself, your esteem, or your reputation. Do it because it's the right thing to do, and do it to the best that you can do it.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.~Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)
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