How do we know suffering is part of God's plan for believers?

1 Thessalonians 3:3 states explicitly that afflictions are 'appointed' for believers. This doctrine is rooted in the sovereignty of God, who oversees every aspect of a believer's life, including their suffering. Paul reminds the Thessalonians that they were forewarned about such tribulations, indicating that these experiences are part of their growth as followers of Christ. Moreover, in Philippians 1:29, we see that it has been granted to believers not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for His sake. Thus, suffering not only affirms our faith but also serves God's greater purpose in shaping us into the likeness of His Son.