Wrestling with Thoughts on Poverty’s Purpose / Why Does Allah Permit Severe Hardship?

Assalamu alaikum, dear brothers and sisters. I’ve been having some nagging doubts lately, and I’m reaching out to grasp the Islamic view on this to calm my heart. Honestly, it’s been heavy seeing how some people, especially little children, suffer from extreme poverty and hunger, born into nothing while others have so much. I know the usual explanations: this dunya is a test-rich are tried with giving, poor with patience; full justice comes in the Hereafter; and poverty often comes from human greed, since there’s enough food for all. Yet, when I see the huge pain many go through, it’s hard to accept. Why would a Merciful Allah create such unequal starting points, where some face brutal struggles to simply stay alive? If it’s all by His will, how do we make sense of this? I’m truly asking: any deeper insights from scholars, verses from the Qur’an, or hadith that helped you? How do you process this without letting your iman shake? I’d be so grateful for any resources, like books or talks. Please keep it kind-I’m here to boost my faith, not to argue. Jazakum Allahu khayran.