In Christian circles, we often hear comforting phrases when we faces trials: “God is in control,” “There’s a purpose in this,” or “God works everything for His glory.” While these statements hold truth, they can feel more cliché than comfort during these dark moments. Instead of drawing us closer to God, they can sometimes push us away, leading us to question how a loving God could allow such pain and suffering.
It’s understandable. When we encounter loss, persecution, or deep affliction, it’s easy to feel abandoned or to blame God for our circumstances. We find ourselves wrestling with the question: Why must we endure these hardships? Does our suffering negate God’s goodness? Psalm 119:65-72 helps us reflect on what God might be doing through our afflictions.
The Reality of Affliction
First, let’s acknowledge that affliction is real and painful. It leaves us vulnerable, causing mental, physical, and emotional anguish that can linger for a long time. But rather than seeing affliction as meaningless, we must recognize it as a means through which God draws us closer to Himself.
David’s life is a testament to this truth. His journey was anything but ordinary—filled with victories and heartaches alike. Born the youngest of eight sons, he fought giants, he became the king of Israel, and faced grave personal failures, including his son’s rebellion and tragedy. Yet, in the midst of this chaos, David came to understand that his afflictions served a greater purpose.
Let’s turn to Psalm 119:65-72 and explore how David frames his understanding of affliction.
The Goodness of God in Affliction
“You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments.”
In verses 65-66, David reflects, “You have dealt well with Your servant, O Lord, according to Your word.” Here, David expresses gratitude for God’s grace. Despite his mistakes and trials, he recognizes God’s unwavering faithfulness. David's life illustrates that even in our darkest moments, God’s goodness shines through. He didn’t deserve the victories or the title of king, yet God’s grace was evident throughout his journey.
This is a valuable perspective. When we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances, it can be challenging to see God’s goodness. Yet David urges us to do just that. He reminds us that our suffering doesn’t diminish God’s faithfulness; rather, it is an opportunity to experience His goodness more profoundly.
Learning Through Affliction
“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. You are good and do good; teach me your statutes. The insolent smear me with lies, but with my whole heart I keep your precepts; their heart is unfeeling like fat, but I delight in your law. It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.”
As we dive deeper into verses 67-71, we see David confront his afflictions head-on. He acknowledges that before he faced suffering, he strayed from God’s path: “Before I was afflicted, I went astray.” This powerful admission shifts the focus from blaming God to recognizing the reality of sin in our lives.
David teaches us that affliction often serves as a wake-up call, prompting us to turn back to God. Rather than harboring resentment, he finds purpose in his suffering: “It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes.” Through our trials, we have the opportunity to learn and grow closer to the heart of God.
Hope Amidst Suffering
“The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.”
David’s declaration of hope culminates in verse 72: “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver.” In his affliction, he finds the ultimate treasure: God’s Word and His promises. This is the hope we cling to—knowing that our current struggles are not in vain but part of God’s redemptive plan that leads us toward His Son, Jesus.
When we feel like we’re drowning in despair, it’s easy to overlook the hope God offers. Yet, in Christ, we find hope, good news—The Gospel. Jesus endured unimaginable affliction, yet through His suffering, He secured our redemption through his death. This hope can transform our perspective, allowing us to see beyond our immediate pain to the greater story of God’s faithfulness.
Conclusion: Drawing Closer to God
David’s journey through affliction teaches us profound lessons about God’s goodness, the purpose behind our struggles, and the hope we can find in Him. As we navigate our trials, remember four key realities:
· God’s goodness is present even in our afflictions.
· Affliction can lead us to obedience to the Lord.
· There is Hope in our deepest struggles.
· Our afflictions draw us closer to the Lord.
When we view our hardships through this lens, we begin to see how God can transform our pain. Let’s embrace this journey, leaning on the truth that our afflictions do not separate us from God; rather, they invite us to draw nearer to Him.