(Cornelius Tyree, “The Benefits of Affliction”)
THE BENEFITS OF AFFLICTION
“I have refined you in the furnace of affliction.” Isaiah 48:10
Afflictions tend to purify us. Before some of the vessels of the temple could be used for sacred purposes, they had to be put into the fire.
Just so, before we are prepared for the Master’s use, it is needful that we pass through the furnace of affliction.
The human heart, like the soil of the earth, has to be torn up by the plowshare of tribulation, before it will produce much fruit of holiness.
Therefore “When He has tried me, I will emerge as pure gold!” Job 23:10
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“It was good for me that I have been afflicted.” Psalm 119:71
One of the precious fruits of sanctified affliction is humility.
If pride is the Christian’s greatest foe–then anything that rebukes it is our great friend.
Because Pride in our ‘strength’ is rebuked by infirmity.
And Pride in our ‘beauty’ is rebuked by disease.
Because Pride in our ‘wealth’ is rebuked by losses.
And Pride in our ‘fame’ is rebuked by slander.
Therefore “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey Your Word.” Psalm 119:67
“It was good for me to be afflicted, so that I might learn Your decrees.” Psalm 119:71
“I know, O Lord, that Your laws are righteous, and in faithfulness You have afflicted me!” Psalm 119:75
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For more go to: https://abbeyjahath.com/devotionals
EXCELLENT! What a wonderful reminder of HOPE not despair aj. HE cannot plant until HE has plowed. When we begin to view ALL things thru HIS eyes the Eternity our Father has promised makes the woes of this world mere incidents. Thank you for that reminder.
I’ve needed this reminder so often that it bears repeating for me! THANKS for sharing!!! aj