It is clear from Scripture that “rejoicing in suffering” is not simply stoicism. It is not simply a

• grin-and-bear-it attitude of tough-it-out-and-see-how-much-you-can-take,
• or just-hang-in-there-until-it’s-over-and-don’t-let-anything-get-you-down,
• or keep-a-stiff-upper-lip.

Many people feel that if they do this, they are obeying God and “rejoicing in suffering.” But they are not. If your suffering does not in some way open you up to a deeper meaning of life then suffering will only teach you bitterness.