Yes, on reflection there have been many points in my life where God has refined and purified my faith through difficult situations. Each time He was able to see the character of Jesus more clearly reflected in my life.
I believe that it enables us to discern the eternally significant from the materially insignificant. Any time we make life choices based on what is eternal and give our lives to what is significant to Christ, then He receives glory. We persevere in the present as we learn to focus intently on the future when we are perfectly united with Christ. Again, I believe He receives glory when we deliberately focus on His eternal promises rather than the instant sensual gratification of the material world.