How do we know God's plan includes both salvation and suffering?

The Bible illustrates that God sovereignly ordains both salvation and suffering as essential parts of His plan. In Acts 12, the church's suffering, including James' martyrdom, was part of God's larger narrative, ultimately serving to glorify Him. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 speaks of God comforting us in our afflictions so that we may comfort others. Hence, suffering can be seen as a means to deepen our reliance on God and showcase His grace in our lives, fulfilling His purpose of molding us into the image of Christ.