Is it Good to be Afflicted?

Psalm 119:71, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes," offers a profound insight into the redemptive power of suffering. At first glance, the idea that affliction could be "good" seems counterintuitive, even harsh. However, the psalmist's perspective transcends a mere Stoic acceptance of pain. Instead, it reveals a recognition that adversity, when viewed through a spiritual lens, can serve as a potent catalyst for growth and deeper understanding of God's law.

The "goodness" isn't in the suffering itself, but in its sanctifying effect – the way it strips away distractions, forces introspection, and cultivates a greater hunger for divine truth.

The affliction spoken of here is not presented as a random, meaningless event, but rather as a divinely orchestrated experience with a specific, purposeful outcome: "that I might learn thy statutes." In times of ease and prosperity, we can often become complacent, relying on our own strength and wisdom. But when hardship strikes, our vulnerabilities are exposed, and we are driven to seek a higher authority. The crucible of affliction can refine our spiritual perception, making us more attentive to God's commands and more reliant on His guidance. It is through these difficult seasons that the true value and wisdom of God's Word can become clearer, moving from abstract principles to vital lifelines.

Ultimately, Psalm 119:71 invites believers to reframe their understanding of suffering. It doesn't suggest that God delights in our pain, but rather that He can redeem it for our ultimate good and His glory. This verse is a testament to the transformative power of God's grace, enabling us to see even our deepest wounds as instruments of spiritual education. By embracing this perspective, we can move beyond mere endurance of affliction to a place where we actively seek to learn and grow from it, drawing closer to the heart of God and His perfect will for our lives.

BH/Gemini/God’s Word