What is suffering for the name of Christ?

The context in 1 Peter is that of persecution and suffering for the name of Christ during our sojourn on this earth. Suffering is a training tool that God uses, like the blast furnace used by a refiner of fine metals, to purify and develop our faith. This is a humbling process in that it causes us to live more and more in dependence on God. For the refining concept, note 1 Peter 1:6-9.

6 This brings you great joy, although you may have to suffer for a short time in various trials. 7 Such trials show the proven character of your faith, which is much more valuable than gold—gold that is tested by fire, even though it is passing away—and will bring praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 You have not seen him, but you love him. You do not see him now but you believe in him, and so you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, 9 because you are attaining the goal of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

1 Peter 1:6-9.

Praying for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria.

NIGERIA: FULANI HERDSMEN KILL HUNDREDS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

03 March 2016

Hundreds were killed in northern Nigeria during violence that took place in four communities in Agatu, Benue state according to BBC News. Reports say that over 7,000 people have been internally displaced and are living in camps as a result of the violence.
Muslim Fulani herdsmen have been targeting Christians in this area and driving them out of their homes in violent attacks. It is not clear how many Christians were killed in the attacks last week; the security situation makes it difficult to confirm the details and reports are unclear.
Nigeria's President, Muhammadu Buhari has ordered an investigation into the clashes and ordered security agencies to get to the root of the problem. He said: "We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened; the only way to bring an end to the violence once and for all is to look beyond one incident and ascertain exactly what factors are behind the conflicts."
He continued, "There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another wherever they find themselves after decades of living together."

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