THE LORD WILL BLESS YOU EVEN IN AFFLICTION

Dearly Beloved, THE LORD WILL BLESS YOU EVEN IN AFFLICTION “Their descendants shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people. All who see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the posterity whom the Lord has blessed” (Isaiah 61:9 NKJV). Whoever God blesses is blessed. His blessings are irreversible even in the troubles of this life. Similarly, whoever God curses is cursed, even when it seems the person is living in affluence. God is the only One that can reverse such curse. When one is been afflicted in this world, one can still enjoy the blessings of God because they go beyond physical or material blessings. They include spiritual and eternal blessings. No wonder, someone that is blessed of God can rejoice in affliction. In spite of the disobedience of the people of Israel to God that caused their predicaments in captivity, God still promised to bless them. Isaiah 61:4-9 reveals how the Israelites had been humiliated, shamed and suffered from Babylonians who had taken them into captivity. God used the Assyrians and Babylonians to punish the people of Israel. However, God judged the Assyrians and Babylonians by tearing down their kingdoms because of their cruelty to the people of Israel. God is always jealous because of His own people. Suffering happens for so many reasons. It could be either by personal mistakes, mistakes of others or by injustice. Individuals get what they deserve from their mistakes. Although, the Israelites (the people of God) suffered because of their sins against God, God in His mercy, blessed them for their suffering from their oppressors. He still fought for them and restored them back to their land. Apostle Paul has said, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?” (Romans 6:1-2 NKJV). If you are suffering because of your sins against God, repent today and ask for God’s forgiveness. He will forgive you and bless you. If you are suffering for being righteous, just or faithful, God will fight for you and reward you greatly. Do not stop being faithful no matter the affliction. You will still enjoy the blessings of the Lord even in the affliction. In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: O Lord, help me to walk righteously before You so as to enjoy more of Your blessings even in life’s troubles.