Bearing our cross implies that if we truly want to be a disciple of Christ- if we are really serious about being like Him- we will face trials as part of our sanctification. Through these trials, both from within and from the outside, we are "bearing our cross." The trials force us to consider the cost of discipleship. Are we willing to allow God to purge from us those things about us that prevent us from atonement (being at-one-with-ment) with Him?