Psalm 107:17 Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.
Psalm 34:19 Many [are] the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.
Scripture clearly makes notable distinctions regarding the cause or source of our afflictions. There are afflictions that are the result of immoral or ungodly choices. There are afflictions that are the result of living godly in Christ Jesus. Then there are the afflictions that are common to all mankind, regardless of our spiritual state. For the afflictions that are the result of immoral behavior or ungodly choices, there is the need for repentance. For afflictions that are the result of opposition or persecution because of choosing to live godly in Christ, there is the need for grace and strength. For afflictions that are the result of things that are common to all men, such as sickness, or advancing age, or the unexpected loss of employment, or death of a loved one, or natural disaster, there is the need of mercy and comfort.
Whatever the source of your affliction this morning, there is a Great Physician of the soul and the body. His Name is Jesus Christ. It is in Him that we find forgiveness, comfort and grace to help in time of need. Call upon The One Who bids all that are afflicted to call upon Him. “For He hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath He hid his face from him; but when he cried unto Him, He heard.” (Psalm 22:24)
