Grief & Affliction

A dear friend of mine who is in constant pain from an accident several years ago sent along these encouraging words today.   

I hope they will be a blessing to you as you struggle beneath the weight of your present trial...whatever that might be. - David

Vaclav writes:

Dear friend, here's a word of encouragement for you...

Lamentations 3.31-33

31 For no one is cast off by the Lord forever.
³² Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love.
³³ For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone.

In grief and affliction, as a believer you might be tempted to think and feel that you are abandoned and cast off by the Lord, especially if the hard trial you have been in is lasting a long time. But the promise of God is that "no one (none of God's children) is cast off forever". Notice, that grief doesn't just come by chance, but it is the Lord, "he brings grief", he is in control, he has a good and gracious purpose in it, one that you might not understand at this time, but one day you will. And because God loves you more than you can imagine, for "great is his unfailing (or covenant) love, and so "he will show compassion" to you, at the right time, and you will praise him and glorify him.

Notice one more thing, "he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone", just as any parent that loves their child, must discipline it for their good, though it breaks the parent's heart to discipline, because it is painful. No good parent wants to see their child in tears, though sometimes it's needful. So, my friend, be not discouraged at your great affliction or grief, but rejoice in the Lord, because by the hard times you're going through, God is purifying your faith, that you may trust and love Jesus more! I speak as a fellow sufferer in the kingdom of his grace...cheer up, in Christ!

Vaclav