Topical Encyclopedia Afflicted saints, those believers who endure trials, suffering, and tribulations, are called to place their trust in the goodness of God. Throughout Scripture, the theme of trusting in God's goodness amidst adversity is prevalent, offering comfort and guidance to those who are weary and burdened.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently affirms the goodness of God, even in the midst of suffering. Psalm 34:8 invites believers to "taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." This verse encourages the afflicted to experience God's goodness personally, finding refuge and blessing in Him. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks to the reality of suffering and the hope found in God's goodness. Romans 8:28 assures believers that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This promise provides a foundation for trust, affirming that God orchestrates all circumstances for the ultimate good of His people. Examples of Trust Amidst Affliction The Bible provides numerous examples of saints who trusted in God's goodness despite their afflictions. Job, a man described as "blameless and upright" (Job 1:1), endured immense suffering yet declared, "Though He slay me, I will hope in Him" (Job 13:15). Job's unwavering trust in God's character serves as a powerful testament to faith amidst trials. King David, often pursued by enemies and facing personal turmoil, repeatedly expressed his trust in God's goodness. In Psalm 27:13, he proclaims, "I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living." David's confidence in God's goodness sustained him through his darkest moments. Encouragement for the Afflicted Afflicted saints are encouraged to trust in God's goodness, knowing that He is both sovereign and loving. Isaiah 41:10 offers reassurance: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." This promise of divine presence and support is a source of strength for those enduring hardship. Furthermore, 1 Peter 5:7 invites believers to "cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." This verse underscores the personal care and concern God has for His people, encouraging them to entrust their burdens to Him. The Role of Faith Faith plays a crucial role in trusting God's goodness during affliction. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This assurance enables believers to trust in God's goodness, even when circumstances seem contrary. The afflicted are reminded that their trials are temporary and serve a greater purpose. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 states, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen." This perspective encourages believers to focus on the eternal, trusting that God's goodness will ultimately prevail. Conclusion Afflicted saints are called to trust in the goodness of God, drawing strength from His promises and the examples of faithful believers throughout Scripture. By placing their hope in God's unchanging character, they find comfort and assurance amidst life's trials. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 13:15Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain my own ways before him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 71:20 2 Corinthians 1:9 Library Surely Goodness and Mercy Shall Follow Me all the Days of My Life ... Counsel for Outward Behaviour. Why Men do not Attain Quickly to the Perfect Love of God. Of Four ... A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! Twenty Sixth Sunday after Trinity God's Judgment when Christ ... God. Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. Question Lxxxii of Devotion Necessity of Contemplating the Judgment-Seat of God, in Order to ... Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. Resources What were the emerods God afflicted the Philistines with in 1 Samuel 5? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about affliction? | GotQuestions.org Why does God allow sickness? | 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 |