That is why, for the sake of Christ, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

For this reason, even though I suffer as I do, I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day.

Join me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you.

“Sir,” I answered, “you know.” So he replied, “These are the ones who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.