Clear Conscience

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1 Peter 3:13-16 NIV)

"Keeping a clear conscience" is the weapon for us to those who maliciously speak against our good behavior in Christ.  When we have a clear conscience, we do not have to worry about those who speak things against us but we know that God sees our hearts and we have nothing to worry about.  

At times, I do get preoccupied with how people view me when it comes to showing my intentions to them.  Yet, I know that I cannot please everyone.  My job is just to constantly keep a clear conscience - one that pleases Christ.  This of course have to be done without violating the beginning part of the verse "with gentleness and respect" to those whom we give reason for the hope that we have in Christ.  Keeping a clear conscience is our way to silencing those who speak against us and will eventually be ashamed of their slander.  

// Lord, help me to just constantly keep a clear conscience knowing that there will always be 'haters' out there.  Help me to have wisdom on how to act towards them - that I will not be swayed by annoyance, but rather have the love to those who oppose good things.  Keep my conscience clear at all times.  In Jesus' name, amen.