But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13
This verse does not promote rejoicing in our stupidity or foolishness. No, this calls for rejoicing in the light of our suffering for the cause of Christ and His kingdom. As Christians seek to emulate Christ's suffering in selfless giving and sacrifice for their neighbors, they can fully rejoice in the hope that they will be glorified and rewarded at the time of His reign.
Christ has completely fulfilled the salvation plan of God on the Cross. Christians do not, in any way, contribute to that plan of salvation. So what kind of suffering do Christians participate with Christ? It is the ethical sense of non-violence and maintaining a peaceful demeanor in the midst of unjust sufferings and wrongful actions meted out against them.
Be that as it may, not every suffering is a participation in the sufferings of Christ. It is the suffering that we bear because of the name of Christ (1 Peter 4:14, 16). As Christians suffer for the name of Christ, they can rejoice and leap for joy having the assurance that every abuse or hardship, however small it may be, will be richly rewarded by God.
Prayer: Dear Father, thank you that I can rejoice in suffering for Christ's name. Help me to rejoice in endurance that I may be overjoyed when your glory is revealed. In Christ name, amen.
