In his sermon "God Shoots Many Kinds of Arrows," Thomas Watson addresses the theological doctrine of patient submission to God's will amidst various afflictions. Watson argues that true submission is a grace-filled attitude where believers recognize God's sovereignty in their suffering, looking beyond secondary causes to understand that every affliction is a divine arrow shot by God for their good. He references Scripture, such as Job 1:21 and Hebrews 12:5-6, to underscore the necessity of seeing God's hand in trials and justifying Him as holy even in times of personal suffering. The practical significance of this teaching lies in encouraging believers to cultivate a spirit of acquiescence and humility, avoiding murmuring and impatience that stem from pride and misunderstanding of God's providential care.
Key Quotes
“Patient submission to God's will is a gracious frame of soul whereby a Christian is content to be at God's disposal and acquiesces in his wisdom.”
“Affliction does not spring from the soil and trouble does not sprout from the earth.”
“Now we are being punished because of our wickedness and our great guilt. But we have actually been punished far less than we deserve.”
“Murmuring is the height of impatience. It is a kind of mutiny in the soul against God.”
The Bible teaches that patient submission to God's will is essential for Christians, acknowledging His sovereignty in all circumstances.
The Scriptures reveal that patient submission to God's will involves recognizing His hand in our afflictions, as seen in Job's acknowledgment that both the blessings and hardships come from the Lord (Job 1:21). Patient submission is characterized by a gracious acceptance of God's wisdom, allowing believers to trust in His perfect plans, even during trials. Hebrews 12:5-6 emphasizes the need for Christians to view their afflictions as expressions of God's love and discipline, shaping them into mature followers of Christ.
Additionally, acceptance of God's will stems from a profound understanding of His holiness and justice. In every situation, whether it be suffering from poverty, reproach, or the death of loved ones, believers are called to remember that their afflictions carry purpose in God's sovereign design. Job teaches that affliction does not come by chance; rather, it is intended for our spiritual growth and deepening of faith.
Job 1:21, Hebrews 12:5-6
The Bible indicates that God uses afflictions purposefully to shape believers and lead them to reliance on Him.
The purpose of God-inflicted afflictions is shown throughout Scripture, particularly in the Book of Job where the righteous man faces immense suffering yet recognizes God's hand in it all (Job 5:6). This perspective allows believers to see their struggles not as mere chance but as divine appointments for spiritual growth. Hebrews 12:6 reiterates this truth, illustrating that God disciplines those He loves, suggesting that afflictions serve as a means to cultivate holiness and perseverance in faith.
Moreover, God's intention is not for believers to suffer without hope or understanding. Each trial serves a dual purpose of revealing God's character—the ultimate Judge who is holy and just—and refining His people to trust more deeply in His providence. Afflictions act as arrows in God's quiver, carefully aimed to draw His children closer to Him, fostering dependence and trust in His sufficient grace.
Job 5:6, Hebrews 12:6
Acknowledging God's hand in afflictions helps Christians maintain faith and patience during trials, deepening their relationship with Him.
Recognizing God's sovereignty in afflictions is paramount for a believer's spiritual health. When Christians acknowledge that their suffering is allowed by God, it transforms their understanding of trials into opportunities for growth. This acknowledgment is foundational in building a faith that withstands tests, as it reframes the narrative from mere misfortune to divine purpose (Job 1:21). As believers see God's involvement in their circumstances, it cultivates patient submission, allowing them to trust Him despite suffering.
Moreover, understanding God's hand in afflictions encourages believers amidst feelings of despair and confusion. In times of turmoil, holding onto this truth can foster a deeper sense of peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Acknowledging God’s providence also alleviates the temptation to murmur or resent the hardships faced—an attitude that hinders spiritual growth and intimacy with God. Freed from bitterness, Christians can approach their trials with a heart that glorifies God, showing reliance on His grace.
Job 1:21, Philippians 4:7
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