The Works of God

From Future Grace by John Piper, pp. 346-347:

We do not grasp the great truth that God has purposes of future grace that he intends to give his people through suffering.  We speak of purposes of suffering because it is clearly God’s purpose that we at times suffer for righteousness’ sake and for the sake of the gospel.  For example, “Let those who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right” (1 Peter 4:19; see also 3:17; Hebrews 12:4-11).

To live by faith in future grace we must see that the suffering of God’s people is the instrument of grace in their lives.