But because you are partakers of Christ's sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory also you may rejoice with exceeding joy.
There is nothing in the text to suggest that suffering is limited to a chosen few. Peter and Paul (Romans 8) teach that suffering comes with the adoption of sons. It is on the divine menu and, coupled with obedience, is evidence of sonship when it is borne with rejoicing (Philippians 3:10-11; 1 Peter 2:21). Suffering is not an imperative: it is an indicative. It is not something that is prescribed--there is nothing that says you must suffer or you are not a Christian--but it is indicative of a person who really is a Christian. And, Christians are not told to seek it out. Instead, they are told not to worry about it when it comes. Paul teaches that suffering will continue until His glory is revealed (Romans 8:19).