Miscellanies 4.7.46

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to purpose. Because those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers; and those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.” You see martyrdom taught for love's sake. And even if you wish to bear witness for the reward of good things, you will hear again: “For in hope we were saved; but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with endurance.” “But even if you suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed,” says Peter. “Do not fear what they fear, nor be troubled; but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you for an account of the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and fear, having a good conscience, so that when you are slandered, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if God's will should will it, than for doing evil.”