May 5, 2008
Why Afflictions?
When I was younger I spent much of my time whining, "Why me Lord?" More times than not I was suffering an affliction in my body, my soul or my spirit -- a misfortune or calamity which brought me sore distress and great suffering. "Father, is there no relief? Are these afflictions from You or Satan? Some folks say that if I had the faith You would make them disappear, but You know I trust You." But I spent most of my time wallowing in self-pity. Then on day I read an Oswald Chambers statement that changed my life. He said, "Self-pity is the highest form of idolatry because it puts self on the throne." That's when I surrendered to God and went to His Word for answers. May I share what I learned?
Yes, afflictions are from God. Remember Job? Although Satan is often given permission to be the bearer, God is still in control. I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. Ps 119:75.
There are three reasons God sends affliction. First, there is disobedience. Just as our earthly father chastised us, so our heavenly Father must do so. If received in the right spirit it brings humility and the resolve to make wiser choices the next time. It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn your statutes. Psalm 119: 71. Second, we have lessons to be learned. Even Jesus learned through his suffering. ...though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. Hebrews 5:8. Finally, God uses afflictions to bring glory to Himself, and then He returns blessings upon us. Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:19. Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12&13
Friend, be encouraged when afflictions come. That means God cares about you, so learn your lessons well and maybe He will not have to repeat them. --Rebecca Somoskey
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