Affliction

 Psalm 10:17 ESV

O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear


We might assume that the desire of the afflicted would be to no longer be afflicted. Not necessarily. After all, Jesus told us we'd inevitably have trouble in this world, but to be encouraged that He's overcome the world.


Think of the afflicted early church. They didn't pray for the affliction to stop. They prayed for the boldness to persevere in the face of affliction.


Similarly, the Psalmist prays for strengthened hearts. Affliction might be inevitable in this life. Yet if God strengthens our hearts, we can cope.


When we're in trouble, we often want someone to simply listen to our woes. Who better to have regard for our difficulties than God? He is all powerful and all loving to help us in our struggles.


'Heavenly Father, we rejoice that You hear us when we pray. Please strengthen our hearts in the midst of trouble. In Christ's name, amen'

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