“For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.” Philippians 1:29-30 says. As believers, no one wants to suffer. However, suffering produces character and perseverance as it says in Romans 5. This eventually produces hope and hope does not disappoint. When we suffer, we are putting ourselves aside and taking up the cause for Christ.
Paul’s life was inspiring to all those who encountered him. He was always living his life for the Lord, so when he put himself aside, God used his life to minister to those around him. He used both his successes and his suffering to further the gospel. Some Christians do not understand this. They believe a misconception that after salvation, their lives will always be joyful and never have sorrow or suffering. This is not the truth. There will still be sorrow and suffering, but the difference is that you will never be alone in your sorrow and suffering. Paul knew that he was not alone. Jesus was the joy of his life.
Maybe you have been upset that your life has not always been joyful or you thought that everything would be better once you came to know Christ. There is joy in the midst of sorrow and suffering because Jesus never leaves. He will always stay and help you through difficult times.