Bible Readings:
Job 1:1 – 21
Romans 5:1 – 11
Psalm 119:65 – 72
Sermon Outline:
Psalm 119:71 (NKJV)
71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes.
I Affliction cut down our pride, our self-sufficiency and boasting
2 Corinthians 12:7 (NKJV)
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.
II Affliction reminds us of our sins and exposes our sinful nature
Psalm 119:67 (NKJV)
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word.
III Affliction drives us to Christ for help, to draw from Christ’s strength
IV Affliction builds up our endurance and character
James 1:1–4 (NKJV)
1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings. 2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
Romans 5:3–4 (NKJV)
3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
V Affliction conforms us to the image of Christ
Philippians 3:10 (NKJV)
10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,
Romans 8:29 (NKJV)
29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
VI Affliction makes us more sympathetic to others and equips us to be better comforters
2 Corinthians 1:3–4 (NKJV)
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
VII Affliction bears witness to the truth and reality of the gospel and brings glory to God
Job 1:8–9 (NKJV)
8 Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil?” 9 So Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for nothing?