Appointed Afflictions

"No man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto" (1 Thessalonians 3:3).

The people Paul wrote these words to had turned from idolatry to the Lord. They were surrounded by bitter enemies, yet they surrendered their lives to the Lord and bore a bright testimony for Him.

How many people today who become Christians wonder if perhaps they have made a mistake when trouble and sorrow come upon them. But hear the words of the apostle: "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). Our Lord Jesus said to His disciples, "If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you," and "These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 15:20; 16:33). Elsewhere Paul tells us we must pass through much tribulation to enter into the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).

Do not be discouraged, dear suffering Christians; do not question your Father's love because you are passing through sorrows, or have to face disappointing circumstances. The Apostle Peter says, "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:7).

—From 1&2 Thessalonians by H.A. Ironside.

If I am told that I am to take a journey that is a dangerous trip, every jolt along the way will remind me that I am on the right road. —F.B. Meyer