What does the Bible say about affliction and grace?

In 2 Corinthians 4:15-18, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that all things, including our afflictions, are designed for our benefit. These light afflictions work for us an eternal weight of glory, driving us to rely on God’s grace. This concept mirrors Romans 8:28, where Paul asserts that all things work together for good for those who love God. The trials we face are orchestrated by God to deepen our experience of His grace and lead us back to Him, akin to how a shepherd’s sheepdog corrals sheep safely into the fold. Thus, our struggles become opportunities to experience the sufficiency of God’s grace.