It is one thing to endure suffering for the sake of Christ. But Paul talks here about exulting in it. When we go through hardships and we fully trust God’s guidance and protection, we know that we will make it through any trial we face in one way or the other. While never pleasant, we can learn through our tough times and can grow closer to God, gaining perseverance, character, and hope. The practice of praising God through our suffering is similar to that of physical exercise; it is difficult and there will be discomfort, but the end result makes it all worthwhile.