In what ways can we embrace trials to grow spiritually, per Psalm 119:71? Psalm 119:71 at a glance “It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes.” Seeing trials through God’s lens – Affliction is not an accident; God actively uses it to deepen our grasp of His Word. – Scripture is literally true, so when the psalmist says it was “good,” that goodness is objective, whether or not we feel it in the moment. – Trials become a classroom in which the Author of Scripture is also the Teacher. Why trials are valuable classrooms • They drive us to the Word for answers we can’t find elsewhere. • They expose idols and misplaced hopes. • They cultivate humility, dependence, and obedience. • They refine faith, turning head knowledge into lived conviction (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). • They prepare us for future ministry to others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Practical ways to embrace trials • Anchor every response in Scripture—read, memorize, and meditate on relevant passages daily. • Choose rejoicing, not resentment (Romans 5:3-5). Joy is a decision rooted in truth, not circumstances. • Submit to God’s discipline instead of resisting it (Hebrews 12:11). • Practice persistent prayer, pouring out every fear while affirming God’s sovereignty. • Stay connected to the local church; isolation stunts growth. • Look for opportunities to serve others even while suffering; service keeps the heart from turning inward. • Keep a journal of God’s faithfulness; reviewing past mercies fuels present perseverance. Biblical portraits of growth under pressure – Joseph: Wrongly imprisoned, he learned to trust God’s providence and later testified, “God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20). – Job: Loss and pain revealed God’s greatness and led Job to say, “Now my eyes have seen You” (Job 42:5). – Paul: Physical weakness taught him to rely on Christ’s power (2 Corinthians 12:9). – The early church: Persecution scattered believers, spreading the gospel far beyond Jerusalem (Acts 8:1-4). Promises to hold onto in the midst of trouble • God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). • He will never leave nor forsake His own (Hebrews 13:5). • All things work together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28). • Present sufferings are not worth comparing with future glory (Romans 8:18). • Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39). Living the lesson Embracing trials means meeting every difficulty with open Bibles and expectant hearts, convinced that the same Lord who permits affliction also guarantees growth. When we yield to His refining hand, affliction becomes an unmistakable good, tutoring us in the statutes that lead to life. |
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