How do we know that suffering is part of God's will?

Suffering is an integral part of the Christian journey, as demonstrated throughout Scripture. In 1 Peter 2:21, it states, 'For even hereunto were ye called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.' This verse illustrates that suffering was part of Christ's obedience to the Father’s will, and similarly, believers are called to embrace their own sufferings for the sake of Christ. The presence of trials serves to purify the believer's faith, as seen in 1 Peter 1:6-7, which states that the authenticity of one’s faith is tested through fire. Therefore, while suffering may seem unjust or confusing, it is within the framework of God's divine purpose to draw believers closer to Him and to reflect His glory.