Christian faith is not a way to view the world or improve one's status as a human being. Essentially, it is a matter of trusting and loving a person. There is no way to express the joy that comes with saving faith in Christ. Our choice to rejoice, even during the midst of our trials, is an act of faith. The act does not require soaring emotions, but it can certainly contribute to them. We experience joy as we grow in confidence in the Christ we love.
We are reminded by Peter that as we walk through this Christ-rejecting, sinful world, our miracle of new birth guarantees that we are also being kept by the power of God. In heaven, we are being kept for a glory that has been set before us. Peter, however, emphasizes that all Christians are being prepared for glory through their sufferings.
As Christians, we do not love Christ based on what we observe with our physical eyes. The love we have for Christ is rooted in everything we know about Him in our hearts by faith and with thanksgiving. For all that He has suffered on the Cross for us, for the life He has given us through His Resurrection, and for the glory He is preparing for us in heaven, we love Him.

Dear Heavenly Father, everything around me shows the work of Your hands. My life is filled with inexpressible joy because I trust You to be my Lord. Thank You for saving me, rising from the dead to give me His life, and preparing a home in heaven for me in the presence of the Lord Jesus. My heart is filled with joy. When I think about all You have done for me, I am filled with unending joy. 
In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.