Afflictions come upon all of us

Psalm 34:19 reads, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all.”

What a wonderful promise for those who trust their God. Afflictions come upon all of us, in one way or another. Webster’s dictionary gives the definition of affliction as “pain and suffering.” This word can encompass trouble, difficulty and burdens.

Physical and emotional pain is considered an affliction as well. Looking at our society today, that definition is recognizable. People are struggling and are afflicted with numerous trials and obstacles. Many of those situations are sometimes “outside” of our control. Yet they affect and impact our lives in tremendous ways.

Living with afflictions is difficult but not impossible. The daily struggle of waking up to another day of trials can be exhausting, but we can still have hope as we make a conscious decision to live our lives fully, regardless of the situation.

When we experience these times, it is hard to believe that one day it will be better. The focus becomes the situation as our tendency is to continue to look at the problem. However, we can learn to apply practical and spiritual resolve to our lives which will help us get through, until we get out. We can apply the principles found in the word of God to sustain our souls.

The examples of Scripture will provide us with the courage and strength to continue to believe and hope until our change comes. And change will come, so hold on to the promises of God.

Scriptures such as “I will never leave you nor forsake you” and “Lo, I am with you always” can be a great encouragement to our weary souls. If we search the Scriptures, we will find lives that evidence trust and faith in God, despite their circumstance. These precious examples of faith serve to remind us that no matter what our eyes see, what our ears hear, all is well and under the control of the Lord. He will bring about our change.

King David encountered many enemies who sought to kill him, literally. He was chosen by God as king. Looking at his life and early years, it would appear that the day would never arrive. He ran from his enemies, hid in caves, and pretended to be out of his mind in order to protect his life. While being pursued, he cried out to the Lord, justified that he committed no offense to deserve such treatment.

Holding on to the promises of God, I wonder if he felt like a “king” while being afflicted. Yet, his day came and although it was a long struggle, he came out in the very destiny the Lord ordained for him. Change came; his focus during it all was the face of God and he received his reward. So, too, your change will come.

Another example is that of the prophet Elijah. He stood up for all that was righteous before God. He tore down altars of those who worshipped foreign gods and re-established commitment in the land to the living God, the Lord. He was persecuted by an unfaithful leader and a wicked woman desired to kill him. God called him aside and provided for him, when there was scarce provision in the land. God spoke to him, met his needs and used him to draw people to repentance. A hard life, filled with struggles, yet rewarded by the power and presence of God bringing him through. He was one who imparted and impacted change in society. Elijah waited for his change to come, with knowledge and anticipation. His persevering spirit was rewarded.

Our great cloud of witnesses as noted in Hebrews Chapter 11’s Hall of Faith, records those who have endured trials, afflictions, persecutions and troubles and were victorious. No matter where you are today, you are not alone. You will come through the times of afflictions, sorrow, obstacles, financial and family troubles.

A relationship with the Lord is life changing. Have faith, believe in him, and he will help you experience change in your life, for the good.

Patty Scahill of Austintown is a conference speaker, author and hospice chaplain.