I stand firm in my faith, knowing that suffering is a part of my journey as followers of Christ.  As 1 Peter 4:12-16 reminds us, we should not be surprised by the trials we face, for they are a testament to our participation in the sufferings of Christ. I will not be discouraged by hardship, but rather, I will rejoice, because through suffering, I will share in the glory of God that will be revealed. This is my declaration that I declare to be so and not otherwise , Amen.