“Jesus promised his disciples three things—that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy, and in constant trouble.”
—William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke
A few related passages and quotes:
Luke 1:30 (CEB) — The angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. God is honoring you.
1 John 4:18 (CEB) — There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear expects punishment. The person who is afraid has not been made perfect in love.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (CEB) — Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 4:13 (CEB) — Instead, rejoice as you share Christ’s suffering. You share his suffering now so that you may also have overwhelming joy when his glory is revealed.
2 Corinthians 12:10 (CEB) — Since I know it is all for Christ’s good, I am quite happy about “the thorn,” and about insults and hardships, persecutions and difficulties; for when I am weak, then I am strong—the less I have, the more I depend on him.
James 1:2 (CEB) — My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.