1 Peter 3:13: Now Who Is There To Harm You If You Are Zealous For What Is Good?

1 Peter 3:13

[13] Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? (ESV)

There is a general principle here that Peter is speaking of. If people in a society are actively trying to do good to others they are most likely not going to be harmed by that society. Is this always the case? No, as we will see in the next verse. But, in general, if we are focused on honoring Christ, we will by extension, be honoring our fellow man. This is good for all those around us.

The concern is that some Christians are not zealous for what is good. They are focused on themselves. They look to God for what they can get from him, as opposed to coming to him to worship, honor, and glorify him. This is not a small problem. If our vertical relationship (with God) is not right, then our horizontal relationship (with others) will not be right.

What's the solution? How do we truly act zealous for God? We show that we are zealous for God by focusing our lives on what glorifies him, and not what benefits us. Jesus reminds us of this proper focus in Matthew 6:33: "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Notice, how God's kingdom and righteousness are to be our priority.

God is the source of all goodness. If we are seeking him, we will find all that we need. We also will discover that he wants to accomplish his good will through us. Who benefits? We benefit, but also the people whom we come into contact with will benefit. As we bless God, we are blessed by God, and the people around us will also be blessed.

Do you want to be free from harm and harassment? Draw near to God. Seek to glorify him. Be zealous for good, by being zealous for God. Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness. He will give you all you need.