The Sefer Chasidim (13) writes, “When Hakadosh Baruch Hu desires to bestow kindness on a person, the Satan (who is the middas hadin) comes before Hashem and says ‘Ribono Shel Olam, it isn’t proper to grant him these benefits before he passes a test.'”

This encourages us to pass the tests that are sent our way because it is likely that in its aftermath, we will receive Hashem’s kindness. This might be the test that precedes the kindness Hashem desires to bestow upon us.

~ R’ Elimelech Biderman