Death is an unpleasant reality that we all face. Despite enduring much shorter life expectancies and harsher conditions, ancient cultures were better at dealing with suffering than our modern, secular culture. Why? If the highest aim is simply to not die or delay death, we are all bound to lose.
The Apostle Paul had a theology that allowed him not only to live life without fear, but also embrace death as gain. Adopting a biblical view of suffering is meant to allow us to live with conviction and face death with courage. Unlike the secular approach to suffering which sees suffering as something to be avoided and meaningless, Christian suffering can be purposeful and life-changing.