The Good in Trials
Trials are common to all believers, and come in many different forms. Here in Psalm 119:65-72, it is affliction from the wicked. Yet, in this stanza we can see eight purposes of God in trials.
First of all, trials help us to see that God is good in how he deals with us (65). The psalmist acknowledges that God has been good to him at all times. God has provided for him and disciplined him; all in accord with His word (Psalm 23:1; James 1:2-4; 17).
Second, trials bring a renewed focus on our spiritual life (66). The psalmist prays that God would teach him discernment and knowledge so that He may demonstrate his faith in his obedience.
Third, trials bring about repentance in our wandering hearts (67). The psalmist is experiencing affliction and can see how God has used it to produce repentance, and obedience to God’s word.
Fourth, trials cause us to focus our devotion on our good God (68). Nothing else can truly satisfy us or bring us happiness but God Himself.
Fifth, trials bring about wholehearted obedience to God (69). In the midst of this lies and wickedness, the believer is unwavering in his loyalty to God.
Sixth, trials cause us to joy in God’s word (70). Unlike the wicked, whose hearts have no sensitivity to God, believers delight in the word of God.
Seventh, trials cause us to to study God’s word (71). The psalmist declares that his afflictions are good because they forced him to diligently study God’s word. We study to understand our circumstances and our God.
Finally, trials lead us to prize God’s word (72). The psalmist sees that God’s word is more precious than anything else. Silver and gold perish, but the word of God endures forever.