We don't suffer for nothing

How true. He doesn't let us suffer in vain.

1 Peter 4

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Some pointers:

• do not be suprised if you're undergoing hardship or suffering
• rejoice that we suffer what Christ has suffered
• those who suffer for Him are blessed
• those who suffer for Him should continue to be faithful and do good

The 2nd and 3rd verse mentioned assures us that we do not suffer for nothing. If we are to become more Christlike, we must not only act like Him, but also to suffer like He did.

Nevertheless, the world will still make our lives difficult somehow. The degree of suffering depends on the people around you, the state of governance in your nation, etc.

Various degrees of suffering:

• humiliation
• criticism
• persecution
• execution/martyrdom

The list isn't exhaustive. Still, the road isn't going to be easy. But be glad that at the end of the day, when He comes and picks us up from the dumps, we will be blessed and shall see His glory.

It doesn't end yet. Despite all suffering, we are still to be faithful and do good. That explains why this life on Earth prepares us for eternity. It's the full-dressed rehearsal to get us ready for the actual show - the real one. The hardships in this world will harden and mature your character and you shall bring that character into eternity - not fame, fortune, education, material possessions, etc.