This document provides a summary of the topics covered each day from November 21-25 in the weekly "Quiet Times". The overarching theme is "Rising Above Affliction". Each day focuses on a biblical principle for dealing with affliction, such as trusting God, following Jesus' example by not retaliating against oppressors, and focusing on eternal spiritual realities rather than temporary physical hardships. Participants are encouraged to memorize scripture passages, help others who are suffering, and draw comfort from God's promises during times of trial.

1. This week's Quiet Times: November 21-25, 2011
Rising Above Affliction
MONDAY
Afflictions are an inevitable fact of human existence. You can either become
embittered by them by focusing on their negative impact, or rise above them and
become a better servant of the Lord. Jesus teaches you to rise above them by using
afflictions as stepping stones toward joy, hope and a mature faith. This week’s Quiet
Times will deal with three things you always should keep in mind concerning
afflictions in your life: (1) God sees, knows, and delivers you from afflictions (Psalm
31:7-10) (2) It is only temporary (2 Cor. 4:17;
Psalm 37:23-24) (3) It keeps our focus on
things eternal (Psalm 119:67-73; 2 Cor. 4:16-
18) Write Psalm 34:19 on an index card and
memorize it. Call a brother/sister whom you
know is going through some affliction and
help them with your own experiences. Let
your speech be seasoned with grace and
wisdom.
TUESDAY
The Apostle Peter summarizes Isaiah 53:3-8 when he encourages the brethren in 1
Peter 2:20-25. Jesus is your model Sufferer. As your Lord and Overseer of your soul,
He calls you to follow in these areas concerning affliction: (1) Don’t retaliate; don’t
threaten. There’s no need to return evil for evil (1 Peter 3:9-12). (2) Entrust yourself
to the Lord’s care (John 14:1-3). (3) Bring healing and comfort to those who are
suffering in your affliction (Matthew 25:34-46). Write 1 Peter 2:21 on an index card
and memorize it. Have you ever helped a stranger in need? Have you visited those in
jail? Have you encouraged and helped out someone sick or in need? Be sober in spirit
and salty in your action--get out there and MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
WEDNESDAY
Jesus was controlled by God’s love, not by the circumstances around Him.
He glorified God by using His life to make a difference in other people’s lives. He
was not used by life. Read Romans 12:12-21. To rise above trials and afflictions as a
Christian you need to: (1) Always pray (2) Reach out to those you see in affliction
(3) Persevere in patience by trusting the Lord (4) Cultivate a positive attitude of joy,
in hope and humility; not revenge and bitterness. These things can be accomplished
in you, let the Counselor (Gk: Parakletos: comforter, advocate ) within you comfort

2. you and guide you (John 14:15-18). Write Romans 8:28 on an index card and
memorize it.
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:21
THURSDAY
Entrusting yourself to God requires you to look beyond the physical clamor that
surrounds you and focusing on the spiritual reality that permeates and transcends
space and time. Your afflictions can only affect your physical dimension. Don’t let
them affect your spiritual one. Read Hebrews 4:15-16. Why is it that you are able to
approach God with confidence? Have you been willing to entrust yourself to such a
caring friend as Jesus? Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. Compared to Jesus’ afflictions,
how do you rate yours? Will you lose heart (grow weary) if you focus on the fact that
you are being renewed inwardly (spiritually)? Will focusing on your external
circumstances cause you to grow weary? Why? Does your idea of being joyful have
to do with being physically comfortable or do you rejoice in the fact that you will
have an eternal glory that will blow away any trouble or affliction you suffered on
Earth? Write James 1:12 on an index card and memorize it.
FRIDAY
David was a man who went through many trials and
afflictions in his lifetime. Read Psalm 94:19-22. He always
remembered the Lord in his trials and was greatly comforted
by the fact that he could entrust himself to the Lord’s care.
Jesus, your Lord and Master, endured the cross (Hebrews
12:2-4) because His desire was to give you the hope of
eternal life. If you have been comforted by His ultimate
promise of life everlasting you will probably have no choice
but to desire to comfort those who are hard pressed and afflicted. Read 2 Corinthians
1:3-7. This passage speaks of the Christian who has allowed God to mature him/her
through trials and tribulations. Write Psalm 119:50 on an index card and memorize it.
If your comfort truly lies on God’s promises, your joy will overflow and comfort
those around you.