Topical Encyclopedia Affliction is a common experience for the saints, as the Bible frequently addresses the trials and tribulations faced by the faithful. The concept of resignation in the face of suffering is deeply rooted in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and purpose, even amidst adversity.Biblical Foundation The Bible provides numerous examples of saints who endured affliction with a spirit of resignation. Job is perhaps the most notable example. Despite losing his wealth, health, and family, Job maintained his faith in God, declaring, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him" (Job 13:15). Job's account illustrates the profound trust and submission to God's will that characterizes a resigned heart. The Apostle Paul also exemplifies this attitude. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul speaks of a "thorn in the flesh" and how he pleaded with the Lord to remove it. However, he ultimately accepts God's response: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Paul concludes, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me" . This passage highlights the strength found in accepting God's will and relying on His grace. Theological Insights Resignation in affliction is not a passive acceptance of suffering but an active trust in God's greater plan. It involves recognizing that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding and that His purposes are ultimately for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). This trust is rooted in the character of God, who is described as compassionate and merciful (James 5:11). The Psalms frequently express this theme, as the psalmists often cry out in distress yet reaffirm their trust in God. Psalm 46:10 encourages believers to "Be still, and know that I am God" , a call to cease striving and rest in the assurance of God's control over all circumstances. Practical Application For afflicted saints, resignation involves a conscious decision to submit to God's will, even when it is difficult to understand. This submission is not resignation to fate but a confident hope in God's promises. Believers are encouraged to cast their burdens on the Lord, trusting that He will sustain them (Psalm 55:22). Prayer and meditation on Scripture are vital practices for cultivating a resigned heart. Through prayer, believers can express their struggles and seek God's peace, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). Meditating on God's Word provides comfort and reassurance, reminding the afflicted of God's faithfulness and love. Encouragement from the Early Church The early church faced significant persecution, yet the writings of the apostles consistently encouraged believers to remain steadfast. In 1 Peter 4:12-13, Peter writes, "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ" . This perspective transforms suffering into an opportunity for deeper fellowship with Christ and spiritual growth. Conclusion While the Bible does not promise a life free from affliction, it offers profound hope and guidance for those who suffer. Resignation, rooted in trust and submission to God's will, is a powerful testimony of faith. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, afflicted saints are encouraged to embrace their trials with a spirit of resignation, confident in the knowledge that God is working all things for their ultimate good and His glory. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 3:18And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the LORD: let him do what seems him good. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 20:19 Job 1:21 Psalm 39:9 Library Spiritual Desolation. The Third Season On the Feast of Martyrs Thy Rod and Thy Staff they Comfort Me. Letter i. --Temptation to Despair. The Second Book Pious Parents, under Such a Dispensation, May Conclude it is Well ... The Little Flower Enters the Carmel the Little Flower Enters the Carmel Our Watchword Resources Why did Jesus have to die? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the passion of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Where does the Old Testament predict the coming of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.org Afflicted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Afflicted Saints: Christ Comforts Afflicted Saints: Christ Delivers Afflicted Saints: Christ is With Afflicted Saints: Christ Preserves Afflicted Saints: Christ Supports Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Apostles Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: David Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Eli Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Job Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Joseph Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Moses Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Nehemiah Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Paul Afflicted Saints: God Comforts Afflicted Saints: God Delivers Afflicted Saints: God is a Refuge and Strength To Afflicted Saints: God Preserves Afflicted Saints: should Acknowledge the Justice of Their Chastisements Afflicted Saints: should Avoid Sin Afflicted Saints: should be Frequent in Prayer Afflicted Saints: should be Patient Afflicted Saints: should be Resigned Afflicted Saints: should Imitate Christ Afflicted Saints: should Imitate the Prophets Afflicted Saints: should Keep the Pious Resolutions Made During Afflictions Afflicted Saints: should not Despise Chastening Afflicted Saints: should Praise God Afflicted Saints: should Take Encouragement from Former Mercies Afflicted Saints: should Trust in the Goodness of God Afflicted Saints: should Turn and Devote Themselves to God Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Bear Them in Mind Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Comfort Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Pity Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Pray for Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Protect Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Relieve Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Sympathise With Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Visit Them Related Terms |
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