Portraits of Grace

John MacArthur: This is John MacArthur inviting you to join me for Portraits of Grace.

The believer never rejoices in the fact of persecution. While scripture encourages us to rejoice in trials, we never really adopt a masochistic or elitist view of suffering, thinking we're more spiritual because we suffer. Our joy gets outside the pain and focuses on the ramifications of God's work.

In other words, we see God perfecting us for greater usefulness. Peter says, "To the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of his glory, you may rejoice with exultation."

We also learn from that text that our suffering here allows a greater eternal reward. So, your suffering will make you more useful here and give you greater glory in the world to come.