As we get closer to celebrating Easter, one of the things that will be  on our minds is the suffering that Christ went through for us. From  the moment Jesus was given into the hands of the religious leaders  until he died on the cross the next afternoon, Jesus suffered in ways  we will never understand. His willingness to suffer for us is  something we ought never to take for granted. It was the ultimate  gift and display of God’s love for us. 

But even though we will never fully understand the level of suffering  Jesus went through, we are told in Scripture that if we’re following  him, we’ll experience suffering as well. Look at what Peter said about  it. 

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon  you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.  But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also  rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12-13) 

If we’re following Jesus, suffering is just part of the deal. We can  expect to suffer for our faith in this world, the Apostles certainly did!  And, as hard as it is to think this way, the suffering we go through for  our faith is actually a reason for joy! That sounds backwards, but its  true because those who share in Christ’s suffering will share in his  glory too! What a beautiful promise we have to cling to in the  midst of suffering!