1. What does the Bible say about suffering?

John 16:33

These things I have spoken to you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Hebrews 10:32-33

But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great fight of afflictions; Partly, whilst you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst you became companions of them that were so used.

2 Timothy 4:5

But watch you in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of your ministry.

Psalm 116:3

The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell got hold on me: I found trouble and sorrow.

2. Why does God allow suffering?

Isaiah 48:10

Behold, I have refined you, but not with silver; I have chosen you in the furnace of affliction.

James 1:12

Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them that love him.

Matthew 5:10-11

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

1 Peter 1:6-7

Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, you are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found to praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 5:10

But the God of all grace, who has called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that you have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you.

3. How should we experience hardships?

1 Peter 5:7

Casting all your care on him; for he cares for you.

Psalm 46:1

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

2 Corinthians 1:4

Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted of God.

Nahum 1:7

Jehovah is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knows them that trust in him.