Afflictions borne for the Gospel are light and momentary

Scripture reference

2 Corinthians 4:7–18 (ASV)

7But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the exceeding greatness of the power may be of God, and not from ourselves; 8we are pressed on every side, yet not straitened; perplexed, yet not unto despair; 9pursued, yet not forsaken; smitten down, yet not destroyed; 10always bearing about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our body. 11For we who live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 13But having the same spirit of faith, according to that which is written, I believed, and therefore did I speak; we also believe, and therefore also we speak...

Stories

A Mustard Seed in Japan by Wm. Merrell Vories
In a space of three years, the most vociferous critics of Merrell Vories and the work he led became admirers. And in places where previously doors were shut against the Gospel, new opportunities arose. Voires was invited to teach on Christian ethics in a school that had previously opposed all things related to the Gospel, and he was able to preach publicly in a town that had previously tried to drive him out.
Hudson Taylor The Man Who Believed God by Marshall Broomhall
For Hudson Taylor and his missionary companions, reaching the many Chinese souls that were yet without a Saviour was of paramount importance. Every discomfort they had to suffer for that goal was welcomed. And so, with a smile rather than a complaint, hardships associated with their work were borne.
Hudson Taylor The Man Who Believed God by Marshall Broomhall
The Taylors were undaunted even after suffering intense persecution and trials. In separate letters, they both counted their suffering as light and momentary for the sake of gospel, fixing their eyes on the weightier eternal glory that a harvest of souls would bring to God's Kingdom.
Walking the Hard Road, Wang Ming Tao by Brother David, Lela Gilbert
Wang Ming-Tao was a man who suffered in the name of Christ. He had seen a lot and had been imprisoned for his belief in Jesus, but this experience refined him and made him a better Christian. His attitude exuded the genuine brotherhood of Christ.