Why is there suffering in the world?

Heavy question, but so often asked...

There are many facets of possible exploration. One of them begins with another common query:
Why does God allow His children, those whom He has already saved, to continue experiencing hardships and suffering?

It's so easy (sometimes) to:
1a. hide from the painful reality of hardships and suffering behind comfortable settings and material pleasures
2a. forget the answers, when the hardships & suffering do come

I have stood guilty as charged, on both counts.
But, with my recent sinkage into the depths of (2a), the Lord is good to remind me:

1b. we must never forget the state from which we were saved
2b. we must always remember the state in which we will end up, when all is said and done
3b. we must prioritize our lives with the understanding the so many, many people live without the hope of (2b).

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This post is weirdly analytical. I think my brain is crying out for some semblance of order and logic amidst all this chaos.

Now to close with a bit of David's poetry

-- order & art & life & truth, intricately woven.

I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise;
I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name
for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted above all things
your name and your word.
On the day I called, you answered me;
my strength of soul you increased.
...
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life;
you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me;
your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.
Do not forsake the work of your hands.

Psalm 138