Rejoicing in Suffering

^{12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
1 Peter 4:12-19}

I can rejoice in my suffering because...
1. it's not a surprise but a plan (v 12)
2. it's evidence of union with Christ (v 13a)
3. it's a means to attaining greater joy in glory (v 13b)
4. the Spirit of glory and of God is resting in me (v 14)
5. it's glorifying God (v 16)
6. God's faithfulness will care for my soul (v 19)


Source: http://www.desiringgod.org/messages/why-we-can-rejoice-in-suffering