Many Christians believe that all suffering is from the devil. Don't get me wrong... Satan is strong, he's after Christians, and he brings lots of things into our life to try to trip us up. But we must remember that we live in a fallen world and at the beginning of time, God put a curse on this world (Genesis 3:17). Christians who believe that Satan is the culprit in all our suffering refuse God... what may be a test, a teaching tool, a steppingstone, or a movement of God for our lives is often refused in our pain.
Peter's words here remind us of a few things: suffering is inevitable, suffering is for a purpose, and suffering brings forth great blessings from God. Our suffering moves His hand in our favor. In this case, Peter may be talking about spiritual suffering because in chapter 4, he's referring to suffering for Christ. Now, let me say something bold... if you are not suffering for Christ, then you are not really His disciple. If you are His disciple, then you'll be on mission with Him. You'll speak truth even if it's not popular, you'll confront sin, you'll share the gospel. When you do this, no doubt, you'll get some push back, or you'll be rejected, or even mocked.
But according to this verse, our suffering is only temporary. AND our suffering opens up His hand. Afterward, He will restore what has been taken from you, raise you up, give you GREAT strength, AND place you on solid ground (a firm foundation). Of course, the complete restoration will come when we get to heaven and for many, that was their healing. But we can also know that these words apply to the here and now.
When we're struggling or in pain or hurting, we need to hold onto something during those times. And there's nothing that will sustain us more than the promises of God. And this promise right here should be one pillar we should hold onto for dear life. God has a purpose in your suffering. Even if it is from the devil, He will use it for His glory if we let Him. Let these words encourage you today.