Affliction

 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know.
1 Thessalonians 3:4 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/1th.3.4.ESV

The Bible puts us under no illusions as to the hardships we face as the children of God. Jesus told us that if we are to follow Him, we are to deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow Him. We are to be prepared to die for Jesus' sake.

Jesus warned His followers that just as the world hates Him, they will hate us. Not only so, but we make an enemy of the devil, who's determined to make our lives a misery. So far so bad!

So if we're going to face so much affliction as God's people, what's the point being the people of God? We might be tempted to do anything for an easy life. But God calls us to suffer for His sake, and afterwards to enter into eternal glorious rest.

Yes, life might be especially hard for God's people with the persecutions, insults and mockery we face. We have eternal life guaranteed though. No one can snatch us out of God's hand.

'Dear Lord, thank You for walking with us through the afflictions of life. Please help us persevere until You call us home, in the name of Christ our Saviour, amen'

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