¹² We work hard with our own hands.^(A) When we are cursed, we bless;^(B) when we are persecuted,^(C) we endure it;

⁹ Do not repay evil with evil^(A) or insult with insult.^(B) On the contrary, repay evil with blessing,^(C) because to this^(D) you were called^(E) so that you may inherit a blessing.^(F)

Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(A) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice^(B) inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,^(C) so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.^{(D) 14} If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,^(E) you are blessed,^(F) for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

¹⁴ Bless those who persecute you;^(A) bless and do not curse.

¹¹ “Blessed are you when people insult you,^(A) persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.^(B)

²⁰ On the contrary:

³ and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.^(A)

²⁸ bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.^(A)

¹⁴ But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.^(A) “Do not fear their threats^[a]; do not be frightened.”^[b](B)