“If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.” Psalm 119:92
That’s my testimony. Had it not be for the Word of God, I would probably be a dead woman. If not dead physically (though I think I probably would be dead physically), at the very least, dead emotionally, mentally, and (most importantly) spiritually. God’s Word has rescued me from many a black hole. At many times in my life, His Word has been my only way out. I am so very grateful for His Word.
Though I am glad that those moments of such desperation are now fewer and farther between, I have to admit that affliction has its place. Sometimes the most loving thing God can do for us is allow us to be afflicted.
Several years ago, I recall praying that God would do whatever it takes to make me like Christ – even if He has to “crush me” in the process. In the weeks that followed, I began to feel as though I was being crushed by the demands of my job and career – a job, by the way, that I literally begged God for. Then it occurred to me that the Lord was most likely answering my prayer. The goal, of course, was not for me to be crushed, but for me to run to God in the midst of the crushing pressure. The pressure was meant to bring about a good and godly result – that I would be conformed to the image of Christ.
As I’ve shared before, some of the sweetest times in my life have been those where my back was against the wall, with God as my only source of strength and comfort. I wouldn’t trade those seasons for anything.
I love what the psalmist says earlier in Psalm 119:
“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. You are good and do good; teach me your statutes. It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.” Psalm 119:67-68, 71.
I concur. As crazy as it sounds, sometimes it is good for me to be afflicted. How about you? If you’re feeling squeezed by life, carve out a few moments to read Psalm 119 (or if you need something a little shorter, Psalm 42 or Psalm 103). Ask the Lord to use your affliction for your growth and His glory. He will do it.
