Afflicted

Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all. -Psalm 34:19

In our afflictions we learn and experience a new side of God. Affliction is used to develop our character and it is an opportunity to increase our faith. Isaiah 53 tells us that Jesus was no stranger to affliction, so he understands our thoughts and emotions we experience while being afflicted. This gives me comfort because I know I can go to him and be open about my experiences. Have you ever told someone an experience you had and they didn’t understand or just couldn’t relate? Remember how that made you feel? Well not so with Jesus. We can find comfort and freedom in expressing ourselves because he understands what it’s like to be afflicted and he can relate to the pain.

Affliction is like taking a hit to the face when boxing.

I used to want to box but then I changed my mind because I would always say, “God I can’t take a hit.”

Well, he proved to me that I could.

This past season I took blow after blow after blow. And through it all, I remained standing. I don’t take credit for any of this though. All glory goes to God! 

Even though we experience affliction, God tells us what the outcome will be. We need only to obey and watch the words of our Father be fulfilled.

He tells us, “Let the weak say I am strong” (Joel 3:10). “My grace is sufficient for thee for in your weakness my strength is made strong” (2 Corinthians 12:9). “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19).

I used to think that affliction was bad or a form of punishment and only from the devil. But now I realize how God uses affliction to make us strong through Him. Oftentimes in life we can forget that not only is God with us, but he is IN us. Affliction doesn’t test our strength, but rather it proves to us the strength and power of God that is within.

Next time you feel discouraged because you’re afflicted, remember to focus on the outcome that God promised. You will get through this and be stronger than ever in God!

Here are some things I’ve learned from my experiences of being afflicted.

• God’s grace is more valuable than money. God’s grace is sufficient and his strength is made perfect in my weakness.

• Affliction is used by God. It is no mistake or cruelty, but rather it is purposeful and is being used for my good.

• Affliction humbles you and increases your faith in God.

• Jesus is no stranger to affliction. He knows and understands our experiences. We can come to him and talk about it.

• Affliction produces obedience and a deeper understanding of God as we draw closer to him.

• We may not like the way God does things, but certainly we will like the fruit it produces. Trust God and trust his process.

• Our affliction benefits others. The suffering of one for the saving of many (like Jesus). 

• We could not speak to it if we hadn’t experienced it.

• Don't curse God. Be humble and wait on the Lord. He will deliver you. He is faithful.

• All things work together for my good. Romans 8:28

I hope that by sharing my experiences you are encouraged. Comment below what you've learned from your experiences and help encourage others too.

Be well.

-Shonna ✌🏽😊