You know I love lists. Any list. A grocery list. A to do list. A list of instructions. Why? I love lists because if can check off the things that I’ve done.

I use Evernote at work and one of the features of this program is to create to do lists. I love that I can put little boxes next to the things I need to accomplish and then I love even more that I can put a check mark in the box when I have completed the task.

When I find lists in the Bible, I get excited. Until I realize that it’s not all that easy to put a check mark next to the items I have mastered. Take a look at this list from 1 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV).

Live in harmony

Be sympathetic

Love as brothers

Be compassionate

Be humble

Do not repay evil with evil

Do not repay insult with insult

Inherit a blessing

Oh I like the last one. I would love to inherit a blessing, but according to this passage, I have been called to live out these first seven items in order to receive the blessing. And not only that, I am to do all of these things while blessing others as well.

And to top it all off, these items fall under the heading, “Suffering for Doing Good.” In the midst of my suffering, mind you, suffering while I’m following God’s plan for my life, I am to check off the items on this list. Sounds pretty impossible doesn’t it?

It is when I try to do it on my own.

But with God’s Spirit, my heart becomes tender. Discord and strife are replaced by agreement. Evil thoughts and insults are discarded. Hatred removed and selfish ambitions are released to humility.

God searches for those who do what is right. God listens to the prayers of those who seek His guidance. And in the end, blesses beyond our imagination.

Perhaps today you will come face to face with a foe. If so, the words from 1 Peter 3:8-17 should be part of your daily Bible reading this morning. The encouragement found in these verses will guide your thoughts, your words and your actions.

You may also find encouragement from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 5:10-12 (NIV). “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

God bless you!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna