If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye, for the Spirit of Glory and of God resteth upon you. 1 Peter 4:14-19. Rejoice ye in that day and leap for joy; for, behold your reward is great in heaven. Luke 6:23. Whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I confess before my Father who is in heaven, but whosoever shall deny me.... Matthew 10:32-33.
Inward sufferings are greater afflictions than those outward persecutions, which Christians bring not upon themselves by giving unnecessary offences by self-will, imprudent and unseasonable behaviour, soaring beyond the limits of the written word of God; but neither do they shun it, being willing to suffer every thing after the will of God, rather than to hurt the cause of God the least, and depart a hair’s breadth from his express will, out of complaisance to the world. They openly confess Christ their Lord, and do not mind to be called fools by the wicked, as they are persuaded that at last they will call themselves by that name. Therefore, they care not for the approbation and praise of the world, but count it a great honour to bear the reproaches of Christ.
Blest are the sufferers who partake
Of pain and shame for Jesus’ sake
Their souls shall triumph in the Lord,
Glory and joy are their reward.
The Lamb shall lead his heavenly flock
Where living fountains rise.
And love divine shall wipe away
The sorrows of their eyes.