And when he was in affliction, he besought the Lord his God, and humbled himself . . .
—2 Chronicles 33:12

Why do Christians suffer? Rest assured that there is a reason for Christian people being afflicted. One reason why God’s people suffer, according to the Bible, is that it is a disciplinary, chastening, and molding process. From the Scriptures we learn that the chastening of affliction is a step in the process of our full and complete development. Affliction can also be a means of refining and of purification. Many a life has come forth from the furnace of affliction more beautiful and more useful than before.

Prayer for the day

Lord, whatever I have to face, through it let me learn more of Your love and compassion.