How do we know that God causes our afflictions?

Scripture affirms that God is sovereign and works all things after the counsel of His own will (Ephesians 1:11). This indicates that even our struggles and afflictions are part of His divine appointments. By recognizing God's sovereignty, we can understand that these hardships are not random occurrences, but rather part of His overarching plan for our sanctification. God's appointment of afflictions serves to mold us into the image of Christ, reminding us that He is in control and has a purpose for our suffering.