"If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name." — 1 Peter 4:14–16 (NASB)

There’s no reward in suffering because of ungodly choices. Peter says if we suffer as a murderer, thief, evildoer, or meddler, that’s not persecution—it’s consequence.

But if we suffer because we belong to Jesus, because we refuse to compromise our faith or deny the truth of God’s Word, Scripture says we are blessed. Why? Because “the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”

We’ve lived in a season where following Jesus costs very little, but that is changing. Biblical truth will increasingly bring opposition. Don’t hide your faith to gain the approval of people. If you are criticized for honoring Christ, stand firm and glorify God in that name.