Acts 5v40 …They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.

We rarely suffer to the point of shedding our own blood for the name of Christ, but when times of trouble pollute our mind and spirit can we rejoice in the suffering knowing God is going to do a mighty work of victory in our lives? And better yet continue to live a life of ultimate praise and proclamation to the good news that is Christ our savior?

1 Peter 4v12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.