Afflictions, while often perceived as trials or sufferings, are frequently depicted in the Bible as instruments of divine purpose, serving to refine, correct, and draw believers closer to God. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that illustrate how afflictions can be beneficial in preventing believers from straying from their faith and relationship with God.

Biblical Examples and Teachings

1. Psalm 119:67, 71: The psalmist acknowledges the corrective nature of afflictions, stating, "Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now I keep Your word" (Psalm 119:67). This verse highlights the tendency of human nature to drift away from God in times of ease and prosperity. Afflictions serve as a wake-up call, redirecting the believer's focus back to God's commandments. Further, in verse 71, the psalmist declares, "It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes" , emphasizing the educational and corrective benefits of suffering.

2. Hebrews 12:5-11: The author of Hebrews discusses the discipline of the Lord, likening it to a father's discipline of his children. "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives" (Hebrews 12:6). This passage underscores the concept that divine discipline, often manifesting as affliction, is an expression of God's love and a means to produce righteousness and peace in the believer's life. The temporary pain of discipline is intended to yield a harvest of righteousness, steering believers away from sin and back to a path of holiness.

3. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10: The Apostle Paul provides a personal testimony of how afflictions can prevent spiritual pride and foster dependence on God's grace. He describes a "thorn in the flesh" given to him to prevent him from becoming conceited due to the surpassing greatness of revelations he received. Paul writes, "Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness'" (2 Corinthians 12:8-9). Through this affliction, Paul learned to rely on God's strength rather than his own, illustrating how suffering can keep believers humble and reliant on divine grace.

4. James 1:2-4: James encourages believers to "consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3). The trials and afflictions faced by believers are not without purpose; they are designed to mature faith and develop perseverance, ultimately leading to spiritual completeness and preventing a departure from God.

Theological Insights

Afflictions serve as a divine tool for sanctification, a process by which believers are made holy and conformed to the image of Christ. Through suffering, believers are reminded of their dependence on God and the transient nature of earthly life. Afflictions can strip away distractions and idols, refocusing the believer's heart on eternal truths and the promises of God.

Moreover, afflictions can foster a deeper communion with God, as they often drive believers to prayer, Scripture, and a more profound reliance on the Holy Spirit. In this way, afflictions act as a safeguard against spiritual complacency and wandering, keeping believers anchored in their faith and relationship with God.

Practical Application

In the life of a believer, recognizing the potential benefits of afflictions can transform the way suffering is perceived and endured. By viewing afflictions as opportunities for growth and deeper intimacy with God, believers can embrace trials with a spirit of gratitude and trust. This perspective encourages a proactive response to suffering, seeking God's wisdom and strength to navigate challenges while remaining steadfast in faith.

Ultimately, afflictions, when viewed through the lens of Scripture, are not merely obstacles to be overcome but are divinely ordained means of grace that keep believers from departing from God and draw them closer to His heart.Job 34:31,32
Surely it is meet to be said to God, I have borne chastisement, I will not offend any more:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 10:20
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay on him that smote them; but shall stay on the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth.
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Ezekiel 14:10,11
And they shall bear the punishment of their iniquity: the punishment of the prophet shall be even as the punishment of him that seeks to him;
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Treatise vii. On the Mortality.
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/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xliii funeral oration on.htm

Israel's Hope Encouraged;
... The cause from whence these afflictions arise is known to be ... unto life, and by that
means has made him fly ... the devil and unbelief.2. It showeth us that despair ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/israels hope encouraged.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ...
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/.../chapter 12 from the close.htm

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