Suffering in the way of God is a trial rather than a punishment from Him!

Verses 10-11 of Chapter 29:

Of mankind are some who say: "We believe in Allah.'' But if they are made to suffer for Allah, they consider the trial of mankind as Allah's punishment; and if victory comes from your Lord, they will say: "Verily, we were with you.'' Is not Allah Best Aware of what is in the breasts of the creatures. And indeed Allah knows those who believe, and verily, He knows the hypocrites.