Why do the righteous suffer according to the Bible?

The suffering of the righteous is not indicative of God's wrath but a means of chastisement meant to deepen believers' reliance on Him. Elihu addresses Job's misunderstandings by explaining that, rather than being punished for sins, suffering can serve to wean us away from earthly attachments and draw us closer to God (Hebrews 12:6-11). The trials faced by the righteous often produce a greater appreciation for the grace of God in Christ, emphasizing that our comfort and strength come from Him alone. Ultimately, such hardships mold us into the image of Christ, bringing about spiritual maturity.