Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.

Afflictions

Common to all (Job 5:7, 14:1; Ps. 34:19); are for the good of men (Jas. 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; Pr. 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).