How should we respond to suffering according to the Bible?

Suffering is often depicted in scripture as a means through which God refines His people. James 1:2-4 encourages us to count it all joy when we face trials because these tests produce perseverance, which leads to maturity in faith. This perspective allows us to reframe our experiences of pain and hardship as opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper trust in God's sovereignty. By looking to Christ, who suffered for our sake, we learn that our struggles have purpose and can ultimately lead us closer to Him.