What does the Bible say about suffering for righteousness' sake?

In 1 Peter 3, the Apostle Peter encourages believers that if they suffer for righteousness' sake, they are blessed. This suffering is not merely a matter of enduring hardship, but is closely linked to the identity of a believer in Christ. Peter emphasizes that true happiness comes not from avoiding suffering, but from recognizing that one’s suffering for doing good aligns with the will of God. Believers are to respond to persecution with grace and to maintain a good conscience, demonstrating the transformative power of the hope within them.