Pastor Eduardo Alveswas leading worship service at Ministerios Adoracion church:
Afflictions
Christianity never promises a life free of problems on Earth. We must all undergo several tests in our lifetime. But keep this in mind: The tests are not designed to destroy, but to strengthen us. They are designed to test our faith. Proven faith is worth more than gold tested. The gold will eventually perish in the flames, but the faith that refines never fail! It allows your faith is the kind of faith that endures and results in praise, honor and glory after it has been refined! Christ is coming soon to bring eternal peace! In this we rejoice and we look forward to His return! AMEN!
1 Peter 1: 6-7 "Therefore you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, have been distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold (which though perishable, is tested by fire), may be found in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. "
We all go through problems in our life. The Bible teaches us as people and countries suffer experiences in different ways and for various reasons. Wickedness is everywhere in this sinful world, and so much suffering. The scriptures present multiple perspectives on suffering. It may come as punishment for immorality. The wicked will surely suffer for their mistakes (Psalm 7: 15-16), although they may look prosperous for a while (Job 21: 28-33). Suffering also occurs away from the Word of God (Mal. 3: 7-15).
When we see the righteous suffer, we must consider God, who sent His only son to an evil world. The New Testament writers incorporated the sufferings of Christ in their own lives. The purpose and need of suffering in the life of the Son of God (Matt. 16:21) helped them to overcome their own ailments. Christians of the first century quickly recognized the inevitability of suffering. As Christ suffered, they would follow in his footsteps (Acts 14:22; 1 Peter 4: 12-13). Continuing the mission of Christ, we incur tribulation (Mark 13: 12-13) because the world rejects the disciples as much as rejection of the Lord (John 15:18). The suffering of Jesus is counted as a privilege for those who love him! (Acts 5:41)
The New Testament also teaches us the kind of suffering that occurs properly live. These tests mature us in faith (James 1: 2-4). Patiently we endure these tests because we know that God is working in our lives (Romans 8: 28-29).
We are strengthened spiritually through these tests (Hebrews 12:11). Therefore, be patient in affliction (Romans 12:12.) Because these afflictions do not compare with the glory that awaits the faithful follower of Christ (Rom. 8: 17,18). Let the perfect power of God work in you in all your troubles! Amen!
Psalms 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but all the LORD delivers him.
Practical Suggestions:
1. Pray without ceasing! Be faithful in your prayers
when you face trials! Pray that the
Lord have victory over your situation!
2. Convive! It is important to seek
encouragement that comes from the church. Let it
God will use to help you in your trials!
3. Be grateful! Thank God in
all circumstances.
4. Trust God! The care you! Put it all
