Would it be accurate to say that our natural tendency when doing what’s right is that we want what we’re doing to be deemed as right? That it’s hard to stand for what is true when the world around you views the truth as old-fashioned or irrelevant? That taking the high road can often be unsatisfying when it isn’t culturally accepted that there even is a high road, but that any road, as long as it’s your road, is a good road? I’m thinkin’ . . .

No matter how much we might want to embrace a reality, or try to legislate a reality into being, that the people of God should be “a moral majority”, if these past few years have revealed anything it’s that those who hold fast to the way of Christ are actually more like “a prophetic minority.” And I’m reminded in my 1Peter reading this morning, that’s kind of the way it’s going to be if you’re going to follow Jesus.

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. . . . Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.

(1Peter 4:12-14, 16 ESV)

Don’t be surprised if you end up being on the wrong side of history. Don’t think it strange that the world will treat you as they treated your Savior.

But bear the name of Christ. Walk in the way of Christ. Even if it’s not the popular way. Even if it increasingly becomes the persecuted way.

Do so, not because it’s seen as right in the eyes of the world, but because it is right in the sight of God. Stand for transcendent truth in a culture that increasingly embraces it’s own truth. It won’t make us popular. But would we dare to believe it will be used of the Spirit to glorify God?

Therefore, keep on keepin’ on. Hold fast to what is true. Continue to follow Jesus in the way of the cross. Be ready to give an answer with loving compassion, respect, and patience. Do what’s right even if it isn’t seen as right. That we might rejoice when His glory is revealed.

Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

(1Peter 4:19 ESV)

Only by His grace. Always for His glory.