What does the Bible say about suffering for the sake of Christ?

In 2 Corinthians 4, the Apostle Paul illustrates the profound reality of suffering in the Christian life. He notes that he and his companions are 'hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.' These phrases highlight that while they experience significant trials, their faith enables them to endure. Suffering is not meaningless but serves a higher purpose: revealing the life of Jesus through their mortal flesh. Thus, as they carry the dying of Christ in their bodies, they also manifest His life, showing that the power is of God and not of us.