If you are a good Christian, you should be pleased if you suffer troubles, since you will become more worthy. And if you are a sinner, you should be pleased if you are afflicted, for in this way you will be cleansed from your sins and will find consolation in the time to come.

Affliction offers benefits in each case, for "the spirit" which has suffered is a sacrifice to God; God does not despise the heart which is contrite and humble.

(Saint Basil)