The Use of Afflictions
Job 30:16-20
And now my soul is poured out on me; the days of affliction have taken hold on me.


As opposite colours in a picture contribute to the beauty of the scenery or figures portrayed on the canvas by the artist, so God makes contrary things to promote His glory, and equally develop grace and character in us. There could be no vocal or musical harmony if all the voices and sounds were exactly alike in a concert. There is no real beauty in a painting that has no shades blending with the bright sunlight. As a foil is adapted to make the lustre of a diamond more conspicuous to the eye of the observer, so the contrary things and afflictions of this life God will use to make His love more illustrious and convey His grace with more agreeable sensations to our souls.

(R. Venting.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: And now my soul is poured out upon me; the days of affliction have taken hold upon me.

WEB: "Now my soul is poured out within me. Days of affliction have taken hold on me.




The Thraldom of Affliction
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