There are numerous themes running through scripture, like threads in a tapestry. In reading and re-reading the Bible we learn to find these and gradually appreciate the marvelous ways of God.
One such theme is ‘suffering then glory.’ Jesus Himself establishes this pattern in his meal with the two disciples at Emmaus; see Luke 24.46
The letter of 1 Peter follows the same pattern, as Peter addresses Christians in Asia Minor, suffering a range of challenges as they lived out their faith in a hostile environment.
In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1.6-7)
inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. (1 Peter 1.11)
But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4.13)
So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: (1 Peter 5.1)
And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. (1 Peter 5.10)
Peter is consistent with Paul. See, for example:
For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, (2 Cor 4.17)
Paul writes to the Corinthians, in his second letter (especially in chapters 1-5), reminding them of the reality of suffering in this life. He adds the assurance that such suffering is temporary, brief, passing, momentary. Immediately on opening this letter, as soon as 1.4, Paul refers to ‘our afflictions,’ commenting that we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings (1.6). Sufferings are not simply an experience to be mitigated, but an experience to learn from. 2 Corinthians validates our experience of sufferings; we enjoy God’s comfort; and we are able to comfort others.
There is a risk of constantly minimizing suffering, or aborting affliction, as Edith Schaeffer puts it. Whilst we do not wish to seek out suffering, as in self-flagellation, we understand that suffering is promised by Jesus (John 16.33); it is normal for those who follow Him; and it is the everyday experience of those who live away from their ‘home’ as exiles.
Peter himself uses the phrase ‘a little while’ twice, to open and close his letter (1 Peter 1.6; 5.10). This phrase conveniently bookmarks his entire letter. His letter is addressed to Christ-followers facing real suffering, so he reminds them that it is only for a little while.