don’t waste your affliction

this morning we looked at the next section of Psalm 119, verse 73- 80.

it follows on nicely from last week where we saw that God in his goodness sometimes afflicts us for our good and his glory. even in his chastening blows he deals well with us.

what was interesting is that up until v63 the only plural were his enemies. there were plenty of them but only one singer. then companions who fear God came along.

here’s the point:

v.65- 72 were about not waste our affliction but instead learning holiness and walking in his ways. in v.73-80 the theme continues.

don’t waste your affliction but be sanctified and see it as an opportunity for serving others that they also might hope in the word of promise.

“those who fear you will see me and rejoice because I have hoped in your word”. (v.74, 79)

so some practical helps for the afflicted:

1. don’t waste it – recieve it as God’s good hammer blows, no matter how severe a mercy it might be.
2. don’t waste it – use it to serve and encourage others by your example to persevere and hope in the word.
3. look at Jesus who for the joy set before him endured the cross and its shame for our good.
4. don’t wallow in self pity – God is faithful, and for you – even if it means he afflicts you.
5. God not only makes you but shapes you for your good and his glory – so recieve his hammer blows on the anvil of affliction.

I had a hint of immorality

Recently I posted a tattoo of a women’s lower back with the whole of 1 Cor 13 on display.It was a good tat but a bad post. Ephesians 5:3 explains why.

There must be no trace, not even a hint, of impurity or sexual immorality amongst the saved and sanctified people of God.

Posting a tattoo, no matter how cool it might be, on a sexually sensual part of a women’s body is inappropriate. If you were offended or caused to stumble – I apologise.

Recently I have been meditating on Ephesians 4 & 5, and have been struck by the importance of holy living. Putting off the old self and being renewed in the image of Christ, in true righteousness and holiness.

Mutual accountbilty and self watch are indispensible in holy living.

“look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” Eph 5:15.