What does the Bible say about God's purposes in affliction?

In Scripture, affliction is often seen as a means through which God directs our paths and teaches us valuable lessons about His nature. For instance, in Exodus 4, God reveals His sovereignty over creation, indicating that He is the one who makes the deaf and the blind. This signifies that affliction can serve a greater purpose in God's plan, including drawing individuals closer to Him. Suffering can lead to humility, dependence on God, and ultimately, to exaltation in His timing, as articulated in James 4:10, 'Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.' Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 tells us that God comforts us in our afflictions so that we may comfort others, demonstrating the interconnectedness of believers in the body of Christ.