Topical Encyclopedia Afflicted saints, those who endure trials and tribulations for their faith, are encouraged throughout Scripture to find solace and strength in the remembrance of God's past mercies. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance of recalling God's faithfulness as a source of encouragement during times of distress.Biblical Foundation The concept of taking encouragement from former mercies is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative. The psalmists often reflect on God's past deeds as a means of finding hope in present difficulties. Psalm 77:11-12 states, "I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds." This passage underscores the practice of recalling God's historical acts of deliverance and provision as a way to bolster faith and trust in His continued care. Examples from Scripture 1. The Israelites' Deliverance from Egypt: The Exodus is a foundational event in which God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Throughout their journey, God repeatedly reminded them to remember this act of deliverance as a testament to His power and faithfulness. In Deuteronomy 5:15 , Moses instructs, "Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm." 2. David's Confidence in God's Past Deliverance: King David often drew strength from recalling God's past interventions in his life. In 1 Samuel 17:37 , David declares, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." David's confidence in facing Goliath was rooted in his remembrance of God's previous acts of deliverance. 3. Paul's Recollection of God's Faithfulness: The Apostle Paul frequently reflected on God's past mercies as a source of encouragement. In 2 Corinthians 1:10 , he writes, "He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us." Paul's assurance in future deliverance is grounded in his experience of God's past faithfulness. Theological Implications The practice of recalling former mercies serves several theological purposes. It reinforces the character of God as faithful, powerful, and compassionate. By remembering God's past actions, believers are reminded of His unchanging nature and His promises to never forsake His people. This remembrance cultivates a spirit of gratitude and trust, enabling afflicted saints to endure present trials with hope and perseverance. Practical Application For afflicted saints today, the discipline of remembering God's past mercies can be a vital spiritual practice. This can be done through personal reflection, journaling, or sharing testimonies within the community of faith. By intentionally recalling and recounting God's faithfulness, believers can find renewed strength and encouragement to face their current challenges. In summary, the biblical exhortation to take encouragement from former mercies is a powerful tool for afflicted saints. It serves as a reminder of God's enduring faithfulness and provides a foundation for hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 27:9Hide not your face far from me; put not your servant away in anger: you have been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 1:10 Library The Character and Supports of Widows Indeed. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Christian Behavior A Case of Conscience Resolved A Short Essay Toward the Improvement of Psalmody: Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... Manner of Covenanting. The Acceptable Sacrifice; 2 Cor. I. 6, 7 A Treatise of the Fear of God; 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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