Discerning Our Influence
Be Careful – Part 2

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-12

Key Verse: 1 Peter 2:12

Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

The Apostle Peter challenges believers to be careful how they live among unbelievers. Are you being careful? Do you discern your ability to influence them by the way you live your life? When the Apostle Peter gets into chapter three, he explains some of the ways we must be careful. In verse nine, Peter wrote: “Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and He will bless you for it” (1 Peter 3:9). In 1 Peter 3:12, Peter adds more incentive to live carefully: “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and His ears are open to their prayers.”

When we live carefully among unbelievers, it will seem like they are winning, but the eyes of the Lord are watching—ultimately we will win in all the important ways! Be careful how you live—you really do have influence. You are a compelling force for either God or for evil. Determine with me that we will be the Christ followers that God wants us to be today! Decide right now that you will not fight for your rights, but will let God battle in your behalf. He will do a much better job! Be careful how you live among unbelievers!

Father, help me look beyond the faults of people and see their eternal souls. Help me to love all people. In Jesus’ name, amen.