Acts 5:41
Acts 5:41
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
Rejoicing in suffering may seem counterintuitive, but the apostles rejoiced because they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s name. This verse calls us to find joy in suffering, not because of the pain itself but because we are sharing in the honor of Christ’s work. Suffering for the sake of the Gospel is an indication of our commitment to Christ and His Kingdom, and we can rejoice knowing that our suffering is a testament to our faithfulness. The honor of being identified with Christ through suffering is greater than any earthly reward. Worship becomes an act of celebration, where we thank God for the privilege of standing for His name, even in the face of persecution. As we endure suffering with joy, we reflect the heart of Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. This joy comes not from the suffering itself but from the hope of eternal reward and the privilege of being counted among those who suffer for Christ’s glory.
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Exodus 1:12
But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.
John 15:25
But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
John 15:18
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.