”And He said unto me, My Grace is sufficient for thee: For my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my affirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Spiritual understanding during affliction is a profound theme explored in the Bible, offering insights into how suffering can deepen our faith and reveal God’s nature. Several scriptures, including Psalm 34:1-10, Numbers 21:5-10, Romans 9:15-16, Psalm 62:11, Psalm 113:1-9, and Matthew 11:6, provide valuable perspectives on this topic.
Psalm 34:1-10 emphasizes God’s presence and deliverance amid affliction. David writes, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4, NIV). This passage assures us as believers that seeking God during times of trouble results in His deliverance and peace. Affliction becomes an opportunity to experience God’s faithfulness and provision, reinforcing the importance of relying on Him.
In Numbers 21:5-10, the Israelites complained against God and Moses, resulting in God sending venomous snakes among them. When they repented, God instructed Moses to make a bronze snake so that anyone bitten could look at it and live. This story illustrates that affliction can serve as a catalyst for repentance and obedience. It underscores the necessity of turning to God for healing and salvation, even when suffering is a consequence of our own actions.
Romans 9:15-16 highlights God’s sovereignty and mercy during affliction. Paul quotes God saying, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion” (Romans 9:15, NIV). This passage teaches that God’s ways and decisions are beyond human understanding, and His mercy is not earned but given according to His divine will. Affliction, therefore, can be a reminder of human limitations and the need to trust in God’s ultimate wisdom and grace.
Psalm 62:11 states, “One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: ‘Power belongs to you, God,'” (Psalm 62:11, NIV). This verse emphasizes God’s omnipotence and trustworthiness. In times of our afflictions, recognizing God’s power can provide us added comfort and assurance. Believers can also be reminded that no matter the severity of their suffering, God’s power is greater, and His plans for us are ultimately for our good.
Psalm 113:1-9 is a hymn of praise highlighting God’s exaltation and care for when we feel lowly. It says, “He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap” (Psalm 113:7, NIV). This passage reassures us that God is attentive to our suffering and actively working to lift us from our affliction. It encourages a posture of praise, even though in difficult times, trusting that God sees and promises to respond to our plight.
Finally, Matthew 11:6, where Jesus says, “Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me” (NIV), speaks to the potential for misunderstanding and doubt during affliction. Jesus acknowledges that His ways may cause confusion or offense, yet He pronounces a blessing on those who maintain their faith. This passage calls for us to remain steadfast, recognizing that spiritual understanding may require enduring confusion or hardship but without losing faith.
In the end these scriptures collectively teach us that affliction can deepen spiritual understanding by driving us to seek God more earnestly, repent from wrong paths, trust in His sovereignty, recognize His power, praise Him despite circumstances, and maintain faith amidst confusion. Through affliction, we as believers are invited to a closer, more trusting relationship with God, discovering His presence and purpose even in the midst of suffering.
Heavenly Father,
“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but you Oh Lord delivereth us out of them all.” Psalm 34:19. May your word deepen our understanding and fill our hearts with a greater need for intimacy with you. Grant us a hunger and thirst after your righteousness, that we may be filled with all spiritual blessings in Christ Jesus. Amen!