20/09/09

Affliction, but for a moment

2 Corinthians 4:17 - For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;


There are two types of afflictions we experience (this should not be mistaken with persecution - resistance or suffering experienced when doing the Lord's work); one due to sins (our own sins and / or sins of our ancestors) and the other due to the molding that is required in us.

The second type of affliction is what Paul is speaking of in today's message to us. This affliction is not supposed to be a harsh / long affliction but a mild / light affliction. When God needs to work on the inner man in us, He needs to shake off the things not of His Kingdom therefore we experience problems / suffering. At the end of this we will realize that without these problems we would not have changed.

Even though we are put through this ordeal we are re-enforced by God so that we do not get crushed or be broken under it. His grace is always there and is sufficient to take us through it.

The best thing about it is the joy that comes to us when the changes are achieved and this joy cannot be valued by any means imaginable.

So if you are been afflicted with light affliction then rejoice in advance for you are going to become more precious in the Kingdom of God.


[ Prayer Starter ]
Father God, You are a Holy God. Lord God, You alone are Holy and You desire we too, to be holy. Therefore Lord, You allow problems in our lives to shake off the things not of your Kingdom. Lord, change our hearts that we readily do away with things which are not of your Kingdom. And if need be put us through whatever You desire that we may change and not loose You. We desire You more than all comforts and pleasures of this world. But Lord, help us to stand in your grace and loose heart as You work in us...

This prayer we make in Jesus' Name, Amen.


[ Reference Scriptures ]
Romans 8:28
28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

The Word of God was given free to us, therefore we should also share it freely with others. (All rights are with God)