Choose your trouble well

If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 1 Peter 4:15-16 NIV
I think there are two types of suffering in this world. There is a suffering of consequences and a suffering of faith. Of the first kind, there are consequences for infractions of the law, for being a busy-body and for our sin. But of the latter, an affiliation because of Christ, those troubles carry a regal glory that we should be proud to endure. It is possible (or I should say certain) that we will face a similar persecution as that of our Lord Jesus and the saints. If you have to suffer, and my guess is that you will, then choose wisely. I would rather share in the type of suffering that has the crown of eternal life than to suffer the consequences of pitiable behavior and poor choices.
I think it is a sad and immature thing to see all afflictions as punishment. There are times in life where God desires to reveal His mind and heart to us. And the truth is that sometimes we will not be capable of hearing and seeing without the burden. But even more so, I think God may use us in those difficult times to reveal Himself to the world. And I think that is the type of suffering that comes with a crown. If I have to suffer, I'd rather my afflictions carry a godly purpose and bring glory to God.
Jesus suffered and it reconciled man to God. If we endure the troubles that God has allowed with grace and understanding, we may reveal Christ to those around us. There is no shame in suffering for the cross of Christ. That is a reason for praise!
If we share in Christ's suffering, then we share in his glory too (Romans 8:7)!