How do we reconcile God's granting of success to believers with their being tested?

There is no contradiction between Allah’s saying: "And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect" and the hadith: "Who among people are most severely tested? He said: The Prophets, then the next best, then the next best." Tribulation is good for the believer; it serves to expiate sins, elevate ranks, purify believers, or as a punishment for sins, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "When Allah desires good for someone, He afflicts him." Ibn al-Qayyim explains that tribulation drives servants towards the noblest of ends. How many great blessings are reaped from tribulation, such as the selection of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, peace be upon them, and Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him? Their trials were a reason for elevating their ranks and raising their status. Similarly, the heirs of the prophets have a share of tribulation according to their adherence.