This was a very helpful article. As usual, I agree with about everything you say. Like you, suffering seems to make me believe in God more, though sometimes I wonder why. Overall, whaty you said here makes sense. But I think this particular line I highlighted is problematic.
I think one of the biggest mistakes Christians make in relating to atheists is assuming we know how they view things like morality, purpose, compassion, a sense of wonder and justice. If we think these things come from God, then on paper it looks like they would be found lacking. Yet I know atheists who are healthier in these areas than most Christians.
How do my atheist friends address questions of suffering? Do they see any purpose in it? I don't know, because I've never asked them. So I wouldn't presume to speak for them on those matters.
Other than that, I got a lot out of this article. I hope you keep sharing your thoughts here.