"And we rejoice in the hope of the Glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,because we know that suffering produces operseverance; perseverance, character and character, hope." [niv]
There is a progression to be observed here...a Godly order of events,.. that the Christian must go through, resulting in the JOY of Hope in God ...that can only be produced by the work of The Holy Spirit....
It is easy to emulate the 'world' and be elated when all is going well...celebrations are manifest ! ...but when the price starts to be paid for one's faith, in terms of suffering....the 'Happy clappy brigade'... rapidly dissapear form view !!!
God Is urging us towards Spiritual Maturity...and suffering is an inescapable element in this process. The Refiner's fire will do it's work and our duty is to cheerfully go the extra mile and accept the fact that Character is formed in the 'FORGE of God's workshop !!!
What did that American preacher say???...'When the going get's tough...the tough get going !!!'
MAY The Lord Bless you.