I Peter 3: 13-22 Peter has described for us what a life of godly living should be... knowing that the world will not always accept us because of our faith.  "

And who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good?"   We know well that some will cause harm to us...  and many believers suffer around the world for just that reason.  Peter tells us, "But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness you are blessed.." 

We are blessed because we are following in the steps of our Savior.   Let us then "sanctify Christ as Lord in [our] hearts."  What exactly does that mean?  It means that in our souls, our minds... our innermost  being.. we revere and respect Christ as our Lord, the supreme authority in our lives, the Master, the Sovereign Ruler.. the One who "died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God.. " 

For Him.. we stand ready to "make a defense to every one who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence." 

For Him.. we aim to keep "a good conscience"  and  maintain "good behavior"  so that  when we are accused..  we have nothing to be ashamed of.. in fact the accusers will be the ones put to shame. 

For Him.. we will rejoice in our troubles.. even when we suffer for doing what is right. 

He was "put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit"..  He is at the right hand of God, "having gone into heaven after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him." 

Father in heaven, give us understanding and enable us to live godly lives as Your Word has taught us.  Help us to sanctify Christ as Lord in our hearts.  Help us to live for Him every day and in every way.  We have a Living Savior who has been given all authority in heaven and earth.. may we revere Him and give Him all our praise and thanks.  In His name we pray. Amen.