1 Peter 4:13 KJV
[13] “but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.”
We should count it all joy that we can suffer for the cause of Christ. This is the truth that Peter is teaching these saints as they go through the fiery trials of life. Suffering reveals the glory of God to this world. These two truths are woven throughout Peter’s letter because the world believes that the absence of suffering is glory. Peter does not want God’s people to think like the world.
A good illustration of combining suffering and glory would be a mother giving birth to her child. She has to endure the pain of labor, but she knows it will be worth it to hold her precious child in her arms. In the end, her reward is a motherhood mantle. If you asked a mother if she would go through the suffering again to hold her baby and be called mother, she would say that the suffering was worth the glory.
Child of God, we may have to suffer here, but a glad tomorrow is coming! A tomorrow of no more sorrow! The suffering of this life will not compare with the glory that awaits us in eternity. As the songwriter said, “It will be worth it after while, my child”.
The cross that brought our Savior suffering and pain is the same cross that brought us power and glory. The thorn that affected Paul’s life created the suffering that gave him power and glory. God does not replace suffering with glory, but he will transform suffering into glory. God takes the hurt and turns it into help for the child of God. He knows how to use pain to bring peace and progress into our lives. He never allows suffering to bring destruction to His children but uses it to develop them.
If you are facing suffering, then do not be dismayed. God has not forgotten you, and He will not forsake you. He will use you in ways you cannot see to bring glory to His name. In our trials, we must stay focused on the One who is in control. As He leads us, He will give us the grace to withstand the trial and honor Him through the process. We should count it an honor if the world treats us the way they treated Christ. That means they see us as genuine followers of Him. Don’t hang your head in shame when the world ridicules your faith. Stand tall and know that the world sees you as a true child of God. Press on and remember this is not the end; a glad tomorrow is awaiting us.