Suffering- Not For The Feint of Heart

Would someone please tell me why humans are supposed to flog themselves, suffer endlessly, and shun indulgences or luxury? Is that really the way to keep us in line?  Does it make me any more appreciative of the things I do have, or, does it make me resentful of all I must endure for so little? Annie Lenox has a line in a song:  "Everyone must suffer"  Why? I don't do misery well.  If liking the occasional treat (new handbag, new shoes, nice bottle of wine) makes me a sinner, I guess I am a sinner.   There is plenty of suffering in the world.  I say let's live the best we can now and leave misery to the miserable.