Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. Psalm 119:67
When we find ourselves in the midst of facing a valley of affliction or hardship in our lives, we must not worry. Instead, we must trust His words and hold onto His promises. When the waves of uncertainty and fear crash into our lives like a fierce tempest, overwhelming even those of us who think we stand firm in faith, we might feel lost and hopeless.
Let’s remind ourselves that afflictions and trials are allowed by God to refine and purify our faith, just like a silversmith does with silver. He puts the silver in the blazing heat but knows that as soon as He sees his face in it, it is ready and fully purified. Similarly, our God is with us through difficult times, guiding our path, giving us strength, comfort, and hope. Let’s look up to Him with trust, knowing that all things work together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
As we face these fiery trials, let’s lift our hands in prayer, asking for His grace and wisdom to help us overcome them. Let’s also seek the support of our brothers and sisters in Christ, for we are all part of the same family, sharing each other’s joys and struggles (Galatians 6:2).
Let’s remind ourselves of God’s promises in His Word, and of Jesus’ victory over death and sin. He has given us the hope of eternal life, a hope that nothing can ever take away (Titus 1:2). Let’s also embrace the lessons that afflictions bring, so that we may be transformed into His likeness: more humble, more loving, more brave.
Suffering can be a school for our souls, a time of deep intimacy with God, if we keep trusting and obeying Him. May we learn to say with the psalmist, ‘It was good for me to be afflicted, so that I might learn your decrees’ (Psalm 119:71). Let’s keep seeking His face, His will, and His kingdom, and let the flame of our faith be brightened, not extinguished, by the hardships of life.
So as we endure our journey through the valleys of affliction, let us be assured that God is with us, loving us, shaping us, to make us more like Him. And let’s love and care for each other along the way, as a family united in Christ, who overcomes all things.
Promise: “all things work together for good for those who love Him.”
Prayer: Dear Lord Heavenly Father mighty wonderful God. Lord, we come before you with humble hearts, pouring out our praise and adoration, and seeking Your power and presence in our lives. We acknowledge your goodness, your sovereignty, and your mercy. You are the Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth, King of kings and Lord of lords, and we are your humble servants and children.
We pray that You would fill us with Your Holy Spirit, inflaming our hearts with Your love and passion. Engulf us with Your presence, and lead us with the power of Your Word, as we seek to live out Your will in our lives.
We pray for strength and courage, to face whatever trials or difficulties may come our way. Strengthen us like eagles, renewing our strength in times of weakness (Isaiah 40:31). Give us persevering faith to trust in You, even when the road ahead is long and hard.
We pray for Your wisdom to guide us in our decisions, and to order our steps each day (Psalm 37:23). Set us on a solid foundation, rooted and grounded in Your love, so that we may stand unwavering no matter the storms that may beset us.
We pray for healing and deliverance, knowing that nothing is impossible for You (Matthew 19:26). Deliver us from all evil, and fill us with spiritual fervor that overcomes temptation, doubt, and fear.
Most of all, we pray for Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). May we rest in Your perfect embrace, knowing that You will provide for our every need, protect us from harm, and guide us home to You. In Jesus Holy Name we pray Amen.”
Have a blessed day!