S – In fact, when we were with you, we told you in advance that we were going to experience affliction, and as you know, it happened. 

1 Thessalonians 3:4 CSB

O – Commentary:

Afflictions—common to all (Job 5:7; 14:1; Ps. 34:19); are for the good of men (James 1:2, 3, 12; 2 Cor. 12:7) and the glory of God (2 Cor. 12:7–10; 1 Pet. 4:14), and are to be borne with patience by the Lord’s people (Ps. 94:12; Prov. 3:12). They are all directed by God (Lam. 3:33), and will result in the everlasting good of his people (2 Cor. 4:16–18) in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:35–39).

 M. G. Easton, Illustrated Bible Dictionary and Treasury of Biblical History, Biography, Geography, Doctrine, and Literature (New York: Harper & Brothers, 1893), 23.

affliction:  thlibō, thlee´-bo; akin to the base of 5147; to crowd (lit. or fig.):— afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble

 James Strong, The New Strong’s Dictionary of Hebrew and Greek Words (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1996).

A – Interesting verse – Paul told them they would suffer afflictions.  Situations, relationships, words and actions that challenge our faith in God.  Yet, they are directed by God to bring everlasting good.  This is where our faith is tested to its core and we have a choice.  Either we believe God is Lord and has our best interest in all situations or we don’t.  This is one of the most difficult parts of the Christian walk.

R – Heavenly Father, we worship and surrender to you as the one and only true God.  Life is hard and has its afflictions.  Your word says you are in them and that they are for our benefit.  Sometimes, that challenges us to our core.  Empower us to put our trust in you in all things and let our love for you grow daily.