13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Christians are not masochist. We do not take pleasure in suffering. 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. Christian rejoice because we see what’s ahead of us (Hebrews 12:2). We set our eyes on the prize that Christ has promised for those who are victorious (Revelation 2:10). As Christians then, 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 (1 Peter 5:4, 10).
The phrase “participate in the sufferings of Christ” does not mean that we contribute to the salvation plan of God. Christ has completely fulfilled the salvation plan of God on the Cross (John 19:30). Christians do not, in any way, contribute to their own salvation. So what kind of suffering do Christians participate with Christ? It is the suffering that we bear because of the name of Christ (1 Peter 4:14, 16). It is following the same principle of Jesus Christ at His passion. When Jesus was falsely accused by the religious leaders, he remained calm and did not lose his temperament. He accepted it as the plan of God. The peaceful demeanor of Jesus Christ in the midst of unjust sufferings and wrongful actions (Matthew 26:63) is a perfect example for the believers to imitate. As Christians suffer for the name of Christ, they can rejoice and leap for joy having the assurance that every abuse or hardship, however insignificant it may be, will be richly rewarded by God (1 Peter 5:4; 10).
Prayer: Lord, it is not easy to rejoice when sufferings come to us. We ask of you to give us joy in our hearts and the hope of glory when Christ returns in His glory, amen.
