Acts 5:40-42 states:   40 The council accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go. 41 The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Jesus. 42 And every day, in the Temple and in their homes, they continued to teach and preach this message: “The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus.”

These early followers of Jesus REJOICED that they were worthy to SUFFER for His Name. 

Most of us don’t like suffering do we?  However, this passage relates the truth that we can have JOY in the midst of our SUFFERING.   That is, if the suffering is the result of our commitment to Jesus Christ.

If you’re suffering because you’ve made an unwise decision or because of sin – that’s a whole different ballgame. 

If you’re suffering because of sin; repent and run to God for confession and cleansing.  (1 John 1:9)

If you’re suffering because you made a bad decision; rectify what you can and run to God for counsel and correction. (James 1:5)

If you’re suffering (maybe physically) and don’t know why, refuel by running to God for connection with His strength & power (2 Cor. 12:8-10)

But if you’re suffering because of your commitment to Christ; rejoice and run to God for comfort and courage.  (2 Cor. 1:3-7)