Afflictions: Part 1 of 2

Preview: Troubles come to every child of God eventually. We must understand how to overcome these obstacles and keep true to God’s Word. This is the first part of a two-part lesson on this subject. 


Scripture Reading: Isaiah 58:1-11. 

Memory Verse: James 5:10. 

1. Do we find from the foregoing Scriptures that God was more pleased with an outward show of worship or a loving, active care for those who are oppressed and afflicted? Discuss
Note: Affliction means distress, tribulation, sorrow, suffering, sickness, or any kind of trouble. God wants us to minister to those who are in need. 
2. What did Job say about friends and afflictions? Job 6:14. 
3. What did Paul say our attitude should be in times of affliction? II Corinthians 6:3-10. 
Note: When troubles come the children of God must keep a positive attitude that all things are working together for their good, because they love the Lord and are in His purpose. 
4. What is our duty to the afflicted? Isaiah 58:10. 
5. How was this clearly demonstrated by a certain Samaritan? Luke 10:30-37. 
6. Is God limited in His power to deliver His children from any kind of affliction? Why or why not? Psalm 34:17-19, Psalm 34:22. 
Note: God knows no limits. He can deliver His people from any kind of trouble or danger. 
7. Was there a time when Christ felt that God had forsaken Him? Discuss. Psalm 22:1-2, Matthew 27:46. 
8. What gave Him (Christ) hope even in His despair? Psalm 22:3-5. 
9. How did David proclaim his trust in God? Psalm 130:1-6. 
Note: David believed that God was holy. He remembered that he had delivered his forefathers from their troubles when they trusted in Him. We also must remember this in our afflictions. We must claim His promises through faith and obedience. 
10. What must we do in order to claim deliverance from distress? II Chronicles 7:14. 

To Be Continued… 

 Other Lessons* in this series:

Afflictions: Part 1 of 2
Afflictions: Part 2 of 2

*Lessons in a series may not necessarily be in the same category.