"Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all." Psalm 34:19

Affliction encompasses states of pain, distress, grief, and misery, manifesting through sickness, loss, calamity, or persecution. David knew these afflictions well. Despite being chosen by God and achieving great victories, like defeating Goliath, David faced relentless trials, including threats to his life from King Saul and the Philistines. During such turmoil, David found refuge in God and penned Psalm 34, emphasizing that while both the righteous and the wicked experience troubles, their outcomes differ vastly due to their relationships with the Lord. The scripture does not shy away from the reality of suffering but offers hope and deliverance.

The greatest example of enduring affliction is Jesus. Betrayed, beaten, and crucified, He bore immense suffering to fulfill God's will, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Jesus' suffering was not in vain; it was an act of profound love and obedience. As followers of Christ, we should not expect a life free from affliction. Instead, we should be prepared for trials, knowing that through them, we are being refined and drawn closer to Him.

Afflictions for the righteous serve a dual purpose: they humble and purify, while for the wicked, they signify condemnation. The righteous are described in Psalm 34 not only as those who are afflicted but also as those who remain humble, seek the Lord, fear Him, and take refuge in Him. These characteristics define our righteousness and our relationship with God.

It's crucial to understand that God's promise of deliverance does not always mean immediate rescue. Often, we are called to endure and wait, trusting in God's perfect timing. The Apostle Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 4:12 not to be surprised at the fiery trials we face, as they are part of our journey as believers.

While we wait in our afflictions, we are called to "do good". Our suffering is no excuse for sinful behaviour or despair. Instead, it is an opportunity to let our light shine even brighter, to keep our hearts steadfast in faith, and to actively pursue peace and righteousness.

Are you facing affliction? Do you feel abandoned by God? Take heart, for "there is hope for a tree: if it is cut down, it will sprout again" (Job 14:7). Embrace your trials with the assurance that God is with you, refining and delivering you. Stay faithful in doing good and experience the sustaining joy and peace from our ever-present Lord.