Re: Question: punishment or trial?
^ Very well said. I especially like the example of Ayub (A.S).
Saby: Also read Surah Yusuf and see how Yusuf (A.S) was tested through out his life until he finally reunited with his family. The hardship we face in our daily life does not necessarily mean that it is because of our sins. It could also be a test of Allah to make us have sabr so He can reward us. For example, sickness is from Allah but look at Allah's mercy; In a hadith, Prophet (S.A.W) said that when a person is sick, he/she does not face illness except that Allah forgivess some of his/her sins for it. So in a way, sickness is also a blessing for us.
You also mention a hadith where the Prophet said that the most tried are Prophets, then those in piety after them. This is correct though in another hadith, Prophet said 'most closest to Allah' instead of 'those in piety.'
Hence, do not always think that the things you are facing are your fault. Sometimes Allah makes us go through trials to make us better muslims and forgive some of our sins for our patience. This is His blessing and no doubt that whatever hardship we come across is for our better. So just learn from each trial, thank Allah always and remember Him in good times so that He may remember you in bad times. And bow down with those who bow down to none other than Allah, and always have patience and believe in Allah whenever faced with hardship.