Trial of Afflictions
Believer Endure Trial of Afflictions
Many Christians, believe the Christian Life is all “good news” . Such Believers frown at the notion of how Christians deal with trial of afflictions. Afflictions are staple for the born again Believer. The Apostle Peter writes: “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you; for the spirit of glory and of God rests on you: on their part, he is evil spoken of, but on your part, he is glorified,” 1 Peter 4:12 -14.
Indeed when the trial of afflictions comes the Believer’s way, he may think strange thoughts. However, Believers, don’t be deceived by the adversary in believing you are the only person facing such trials or afflictions. The Lord Jesus has words of encouragement for you through Apostle Peter. He says, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you,” 1 Peter 5:8 – 10. Your trial is not forever and you will be a stronger Believer after you have suffered a little while.
Apostle Paul reiterates Apostle Peter’s point to be watchful in all things, 2 Timothy 4:5. He also encourages each Believer to endure the trial of afflictions, work as an evangelist and make “ full proof of your ministry”. Therefore, the Believer has no time for self-pity because of the trial of afflictions.
How Believers deal with trials of afflictions has consequences for the Kingdom of Heaven. Apostle Paul reminds Believers of Jesus Christ not to behave offensive but conduct ourselves as ministers of Christ even during afflictions that the ministry of Christ be blameless, 2 Corinthians 6:3-4.
No Believer Should be Moved by His Trial of Afflictions
On a personal level, Apostle Paul affirms that no Believer should be “moved by” his trial of afflictions, 1 Thessalonians 3:3. David reminds us, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivers him out of them all,” Psalm 34:19. He did it before because he delivered Joseph, Acts 7:10. Moreover, He will do it again.
Not every Believer will have the same trial of afflictions, some may face singleness (unmarried), others prolong physical sufferings, others may face poverty and unemployment. “And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth,” Hebrews 11:36 – 38. Whatever is your affliction, endure for the Lord will deliver you out of all.
All Believers are Called to be Partakers of the Trial of Afflictions of the Gospel According to the Power of God
Finally, all Believers are called to be partakers of the afflictions of the Gospel according to the power of God. This power saved us and called us not according to our works but according to His purpose and grace, which we receive through Jesus Christ. Jesus “abolished death” and “brought life and immortality to life through the gospel.” Therefore, treat the gospel according to your calling, whether as a preacher, a teacher or an apostle of the Gospel of Christ.
“Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, you are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, you love; in whom, though now you see him not, yet believing, you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls,” 1 Peter 1:6 – 9.
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Say, you got a nice post.Really looking forward to read more about trial of afflictions. Fantastic.
Thank you Zain, blessings!
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