Preparing for Affliction

In his first epistle, the apostle Peter reminds us to "think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you" (4:12). Verses like this make it especially clear that walking with God does not exempt anyone from hardship, and that it rains "on the just and on the unjust" (Matt. 5:45). In fact, 2 Timothy 3:12 reveals that a unique type of persecution will be encountered by "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus."

According to his own testimony, the single most important ingredient to the Psalmist's (likely David) survival of affliction was the Word of God, wherein he delighted greatly and meditated constantly (Ps. 119:47; 1:2). Because of this, he avoided the tragedy of "perishing in his affliction" and learned to thrive spiritually even while walking "through the valley of the shadow of death" (Ps. 23:4).

• The Word gave hope (Ps. 119:49). One definition of hope is "the feeling that . . . events will turn out for the best." Of course for the Christian, such hope is far more than a feeling; it is a sure promise of God "that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28). Through the Psalmist's affliction, he found hope in the promises of God.

• The Word gave wisdom (Ps. 119:98-100). Oftentimes seasons of hardship are also seasons of decision, and any decision based solely on human ideals and philosophies is likely to be a mistake. Through the wisdom of God revealed in Scripture, the Psalmist's steps were "ordered by the Lord" (Ps. 37:23).

• The Word gave joy (Ps. 119:14). Perhaps the greatest temptation faced by the believer during times of trial is to become discouraged and "despair even of life" (2 Cor. 1:8). The Psalmist's joy, however, was not dependent upon external circumstances, but upon the eternally unchanging Word of God hidden in his heart (Ps. 119:11).

Even in my own experience, the darkest times of life have frequently been illuminated by a specific passage of Scripture that served as "a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Ps. 119:105). It makes sense, then, to prepare for these inevitable battles by immersing ourselves in the Word of God even during the good times, and to proclaim joyfully, "I will never forget thy precepts" (Ps. 119:93).