10 ENCOURAGING Reasons for TrialsSample

Let's talk about affliction for chastisement before we wrap things up tomorrow.
There are some important verses to point out.

God clearly says in scripture that there is a consequence for sin. (Galatians 6:7)
He is holy, and can never turn a blind eye.
And even though we are clothed in the righteousness of His Son for eternity, the sin done while we are still here on this earth must be addressed.

But that being said, some of us judge ourselves too harshly with no mercy or grace mixed in.
We also tend to try to choose our punishment, but yet lack the wisdom to know what punishment meets our crime.
We also lack the wisdom to know which punishment will be effective and bear fruit.

Let’s hear God’s truth on how He judges our sin.

First, God says that He is gracious and full of compassion towards us.   
Secondly, scripture says He does not give us what we deserve.  
Thirdly, it is far better to fall into the hands of God in judgment than the hands of man, yourself included!
When King David had to choose His punishment for numbering the people, He chose to let God choose his judgment. (I Chron. 21:13)

If you suspect your affliction is a result of your actions, examine yourself.    
Ask God to reveal any sin or misconduct that you need to repent of.   
Perhaps your trial is chastisement for personal sin.   
Trust God to reveal anything you need to correct.  
Repent if needed.   
Trust God by putting your judgment into His hands rather than trying to punish yourself. 

Then, let God use the trial to complete His purpose.   
You don’t have to know which reason He has allowed the trial and He may have more than one purpose. 

Lastly, don’t hold yourself in bondage to your mistakes.
Jesus doesn’t!   
Repent, change if needed, then move right back into abundant life, even though the trail may continue.

The trial may continue, but so does His mercy and grace!

Truly, all things work together for our good, whether a trial is a consequence of our behavior or a God-sent opportunity to conform us to the image of His precious Son.