One of the great paradoxes of the Bible is the clear teaching that affliction and joy often can occupy the same space in the life of a Christian. Billy Graham said it well: “The most remarkable thing about suffering is that God can use it for our good.”1 And if suffering can be used for our good, that knowledge can often produce joy. But it is important to understand that the good our current afflictions can produce are often future oriented. R. C. Sproul provided insight here when he shared: “In order to be able to count earthly sorrows and afflictions as matters of joy, we have to cultivate the ability to think in terms of the future.”2
Several examples of the interrelationship between affliction, trials, and suffering and joy can be seen in the Scriptures. Just consider the following verses:
(Hebrews 12:2) – “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
(James 1:2) – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.”
(Matthew 5:11-12) – “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
(Acts 5:40-41) – “And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So, they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.”
Not only do the above verses show us that we can rejoice in affliction, when we are acting in the will of God, but the Lord often allows affliction for His higher purposes. We can see this clearly shown from the pen of the psalmist, for we read: “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” (Psalm 119:71) And: “I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.” (Psalm 119:75). In the story of Joseph, we see the Lord allowing multiple afflictions and trials in his life, all for the purpose of getting Joseph to the place where he could become the Prime Minister of Egypt – and thus, through his wisdom save millions from starvation.
One final verse gives us a powerful weapon to help us endure even the most difficult afflictions and once again comes from (Psalm 119): “If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.” (Psalm 119:92). When we delight in the Scriptures, I believe, that the Holy Spirit illuminates the deep things of the Word and not only helps us reconcile God’s sovereignty over human affliction but helps us to experientially relate to (Romans 8:28): “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
So, the next time you face a period of suffering, rather than complain and murmur against God realize that this can prove a great opportunity to be used by God to bring Him glory and you joy!
1 Inspirational Quotes on Suffering (bibleportal.com)
2 Inspirational Quotes by R. C. Sproul – page 5 (bibleportal.com)
I want to encourage all Christians to stand faithful. Christ has won the victory! I am encouraged by 1 Corinthians 10:13 which says: “We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously.”
(TPT)
God bless.