The Apostle Paul was well acquainted with suffering.  Though his trials and difficulties were different from ours, we can learn much from his perspectives on suffering.  Paul begins by praising God as the Father of Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.  Then he mentions three ways in which God might use suffering: that we might comfort others, that we might not trust in ourselves, and that we might learn to give thanks.  This perspective gives a framework for those who suffer.