Extraordinary afflictions are not always the punishment of extraordinary sins, but sometimes the trial of extraordinary graces.
– Matthew Henry.
How do you react to the afflictions brought about by life? I was not good at facing afflictions myself. Anxiety and confusion take over, and I end up making the wrong life choices. The emotions are still quite true today. The difference is I have confidence in Jesus Christ that He is looking out for me. And so, the anxiety and confusion do not overwhelm me but reminds me that I am not alone, for the Holy Spirit is with me.
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Book of Lamentations 3:27. Please, read our recent devotional from the Gospel According to Luke 15:22: God’s Forgiveness When One Repents
The discipline and attitude of our youth towards afflictions
Jeremiah, who is known to be the author of the Lamentations, gave hope despite desperations and afflictions. He has reminded us that we should have discipline and a patient attitude during trying times. The verse, it is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth, meant that if we are disciplined at a young age, we will be steadfast in our duty to God.
The young age does not only mean, in our youth but can also be applied in our spiritual maturity. As you Christians, we should establish discipline in studying the scriptures, praying and fasting, for these will be our weapons through our afflictions.
Reflection on your attitude towards afflictions
Afflictions come in different shapes and forms. Moreover, it strikes us when we least expect it. And often, our attitudes towards it are more of worldly reactions and not Spirit-filled responses. Paul reminds us when he said, for I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us (Romans 8:18).
Therefore, let us discipline ourselves in the teaching of Jesus Christ. Make the Holy Scriptures fill your mind and heart. Furthermore, to guide you in your afflictions and trials. Pray that the Holy Spirit will lead you through them and closer to our Heavenly Father.
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- How do you react to the afflictions brought about by life?
- Are you disciplined by the Holy Spirit?
- Have you accepted the Lord Jesus in your life? Accept Jesus Now.
- What are your actions towards following the discipline of Christ?
- How do you help others in their afflictions?
Related Posts
- Fasting According To Jesus – Matthew 6:16-18
- The Lost Sheep Of The House Of Israel
- How Does God’s Wrath Differ From His Discipline
- Lord, Your Word is My Guide
- Is Whining Your Favorite Past Time?
Prayer
Dear God, Please help me to have more self-control. Train me, Lord, like an athlete to be strong and determined. Feed me with your truth in the scriptures to make me healthy. May I exercise muscles of forgiveness, patience and peacemaking. Lord, increase my stamina to give out to those in need. And may I be freed from past hurts and confusions so that I can run free. Come fill my life with your resurrection hope!
All these we pray in Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
(from living-prayers.com)
