Our Scripture reading today is 1 Peter 4:12-13, "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."
I am quite sure we would all agree that to rejoice in trials and sufferings is not natural nor is it easy to do. It will take a daily walk with God to come through a trial with exceeding joy. It will require complete trust in the will of God to have His glory revealed in us through trials. There is no doubt strong faith will be required to live out these two verses from the Apostle Peter's pen.
According to these verses, suffering is a tool to bring about spiritual growth in the life of the believer. Consider what the writer of Hebrews says in chapter 5:8, "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;" Suffering was used as a teacher to the Son of God. Think of that. It is important that we allow sufferings and trials to be our teacher and not allow them to drive us to bitterness and fear. They are all Father filtered and give us the opportunity to have Him receive all the glory through us.