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sermom-Righteousness Amidst Affliction

Righteousness Amidst Affliction

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sermom-Righteousness Amidst Affliction

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  1. Sermon: Righteousness Amidst Affliction Genesis 29:20-35, James 1-12, Mathew 5:1-11 Rev canon Joseph Kuria 21-07-24 Introduction Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we explore a theme that touches the core of our human experience: "Righteousness Amidst Affliction." We will delve into the lives of Job, Joseph, and Jacob, reflecting on their journeys through suffering and their ultimate restoration. By examining their trials and triumphs, we will uncover lessons on faith, divine providence, and the fulfillment of God's promises. I. God's Plan for Humanity A. God's Original Blessing From the very beginning, God's plan for humanity has been one of blessing and prosperity. In Genesis 1:28, we read of God’s blessing: “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” This initial command was not just about procreation but about thriving and exercising stewardship over creation. It underscores God's intention for humanity to flourish and live in harmony with His creation, reflecting His goodness and grace. B. Assurances in Jeremiah and Chronicles God’s promises extend throughout Scripture, offering us reassurance and hope. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This promise of a hopeful future amidst uncertainty is a testament to God’s unwavering commitment to our well-being. Similarly, Jabez's prayer in 1 Chronicles 4:10, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory,” is a heartfelt plea for divine favor, which God granted, illustrating His responsiveness to sincere requests for blessing. C. Many Are the Afflictions of the Righteous Psalm 34:19-22 offers a powerful assurance amid suffering: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the LORD delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones: Not one of them is broken... The LORD redeems the soul of his servants: And none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.” This passage acknowledges the reality of trials but also assures us of God’s deliverance. The righteous will face afflictions, but God’s promise of rescue and protection is sure. Expounding on Psalm 34:19-22 and Related Assurances 1.Afflictions of the Righteous: This verse candidly admits that the righteous are not exempt from suffering. In fact, their commitment to God often places them at odds with a world opposed to divine righteousness. This reality is challenging but reflects the cost of living a life aligned with God's will.

  2. 2.Divine Deliverance: The promise that “The LORD delivers him out of them all” is a beacon of hope. It means that, despite the severity of our trials, God’s deliverance is certain. His ways of rescue may not align with our expectations, but His faithfulness is unwavering. 3.Protection of the Righteous: The phrase “He keeps all his bones: Not one of them is broken” symbolizes God’s comprehensive care. This protective promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, whose bones were not broken during His crucifixion, demonstrating God’s precise fulfillment of His promises. 4.Judgment on the Wicked: “Evil shall slay the wicked: And they that hate the righteous shall be desolate” serves as a reminder that while the righteous may suffer temporarily, justice will ultimately prevail. The wicked's opposition to God and His people will lead to their downfall. 5.Redemption and Trust: The promise that “The LORD redeems the soul of hisservants” highlights the security found in trusting God. It assures us that faith in God is never misplaced; it leads to spiritual security and ultimate redemption. Matthew 5:10-12 (NIV) "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Relevance: This passage directly addresses the theme of righteousness amidst suffering. It assures that persecution and afflictions faced for the sake of righteousness are recognized and rewarded by God. James 1:2-4 encourages us to view trials as opportunities for growth: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” This perspective helps us understand that God’s refining work through trials is meant to perfect our faith. II. The Righteousness of Job A. Job's Integrity and Trials Job stands as a monumental example of righteousness. Described as “blameless and upright” (Job 1:1), Job faced severe trials: the loss of his wealth, his children, and his health. Despite his suffering, Job's faith remained steadfast. His story demonstrates that true righteousness is not a shield from suffering but a foundation for enduring it with grace. B. The Three Phases of Job's Faith 1.Faith Amidst Loss: Job’s initial response to his trials was one of profound faith: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). His ability to worship God even in the face of loss highlights the depth of his trust in God’s sovereignty. 2.Faith Amidst Questioning: As Job’s suffering deepened, he wrestled with questions about God’s justice. Yet, his faith remained unshaken: “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15).

  3. This phase illustrates the struggle between faith and doubt, showcasing Job's unyielding trust despite unanswered questions. 3.Faith Amidst Restoration: Job’s story culminates in divine restoration. God restored his fortunes and blessed him abundantly (Job 42:10). Job’s restoration demonstrates that steadfast faith, even amidst intense trials, leads to ultimate divine blessing and fulfillment. III. Jacob's Pursuit of Righteousness Amidst Afflictions A. Seeking Righteousness During Afflictions 1.Jacob’s Initial Deceptions and Consequences: Jacob’s journey began with personal flaws, including deception and manipulation. He acquired Esau’s birthright and blessing through deceit (Genesis 25:29-34; Genesis 27:1-29). These actions led to significant trials, including his labor under Laban. Jacob’s afflictions, resulting from his earlier actions, served as both punishment and a means of transformation. 2.Lessons Learned Through Trials: Jacob’s 20 years of hardship with Laban, characterized by minimal communication from God (Genesis 31:41), were formative. His reflection, “My affliction and the toil of my hands, God has seen” (Genesis 31:42), shows his growing awareness of God’s presence and justice. His trials shaped his character, deepening his reliance on God. 3.Repentance and Spiritual Renewal: Jacob’s journey reached a turning point when God instructed him to return to his homeland. Leading his household in discarding foreign gods (Genesis 35:2) marked a significant step in his spiritual renewal. This act of repentance realigned his life with God’s righteousness and prepared him for restoration. B. The Process and Progress of Restoration 1.Transformation and New Identity: God changed Jacob’s name to Israel, symbolizing a new beginning (Genesis 35:10). This renaming represented a deep transformation in Jacob’s character and faith, signifying a new identity grounded in righteousness and divine favor. 2.Divine Guidance and Provision: During a famine, God directed Jacob to Egypt, ensuring his family’s survival and prosperity (Genesis 46:2-4). This divine guidance highlights Jacob’s trust in God’s provision and wisdom amidst trials. 3.Reunification and Blessings: Jacob’s reunion with Joseph, whom he had believed dead, and the blessings he received in Egypt, including a favorable settlement in Goshen and dining with Pharaoh (Genesis 45:26-28; Genesis 47:11-12), illustrate the tangible rewards of his faithfulness. These blessings were manifestations of God’s promises fulfilled. 4.Legacy of Faith: Jacob’s life exemplifies the pursuit of righteousness amidst afflictions. His journey from deception to spiritual renewal and the subsequent blessings demonstrate how God transforms trials into opportunities for growth and divine favor. IV. Faith and Vision: Seeing God's Promises A. The Principle of Faith

  4. Faith is essential to realizing God’s promises. Romans 10:17 states, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Meditating on God’s Word, as emphasized in Joshua 1:8, helps us internalize His promises and strengthens our faith. B. Seeing and Believing In the midst of afflictions, we draw strength from God’s assurances. Jeremiah 1:11-19 shows God’s vigilance over His promises. Habakkuk 2:1-4 encourages us to remain steadfast, emphasizing that “the righteous shall live by faith.” Romans 8:28 assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him,” and 2 Corinthians 1:20 affirms that “No matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ.” Even in suffering, we can trust that God’s promises will come to fruition, as He is faithful to fulfill them. Conclusion: Applying Righteousness Amidst Affliction Jacob’s journey through affliction and his pursuit of righteousness offer profound lessons for us today, whether on an individual level, within our families, or as a nation. His story demonstrates that despite our personal flaws and the trials we face, God’s grace and faithfulness lead to restoration and fulfillment of His promises. A. Individual Level Many of us face personal struggles—be they health issues, financial difficulties, or emotional pain. Jacob’s story encourages us to seek righteousness and align ourselves with God’s will even when the path is challenging. Just as Jacob’s trials led to spiritual renewal and a new identity, our afflictions can be opportunities for divine growth and blessing. B. Family Context Families often experience conflicts, financial strain, and other challenges. Jacob’s example teaches us that leading our families in seeking God and repenting for past mistakes can result in healing and blessings. By aligning family life with God’s principles, we invite His transformative power into our relationships. C. National Context (Kenya) Kenya faces numerous challenges—economic hardships, political instability, and social issues. Jacob’s story serves as a reminder that collective righteousness and commitment to justice can lead to national restoration. By seeking divine guidance, repenting for national wrongs, and striving for unity and fairness, Kenya can experience transformation and the fulfillment of God’s promises. In closing, let us be encouraged by Jacob’s journey. His pursuit of righteousness amidst affliction is not only a path to personal restoration but also a model for families and nations. As we navigate our own challenges, let us seek God’s righteousness, trust in His plan, and remain hopeful for the restoration and blessings He has promised. Altar Call If you find yourself struggling with personal afflictions, family conflicts, or national challenges, I invite you to come forward. Let us pray together for strength to pursue righteousness amidst your trials and

  5. for the restoration that God promises. Embrace the hope that, like Jacob, Job, and Joseph, your faithfulness will lead to profound transformation and blessings. Come forward and let us seek God’s grace and restoration together.

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