In 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses a church struggling with trials and conflicts, revealing the profound truth that affliction reveals faith. Writing to reestablish relationship, bring comfort, strengthen commitment to truth, and encourage reconciliation, Paul presents a counter-cultural message: power is made perfect in weakness, and comfort comes through affliction.

God's judgment is actually cause for celebration, not fear, for three key reasons. First, it promises an end to evil and suffering in the world, addressing our deep longing for justice. Second, unlike human judgment which is flawed and hypocritical, God judges with perfect knowledge and fairness. Finally, through Christ's sacrifice on the cross, believers are spared God's judgment—Jesus drank the cup of God's wrath meant for us. This mirrors the Passover, where judgment passed over those marked by the lamb's blood, and offers profound hope that evil will not have the final word.

Psalm 74 is a lament that transforms into a celebration of God's goodness despite catastrophe. The psalm mourns the temple's destruction while affirming God's sovereignty with the declaration 'Yet God, my King, is from old.' This ancient text reveals three profound truths about Christ: God's amazing providence (Jesus as the true temple), God's incredible humility (allowing His temple to be destroyed), and God's unpredictable benevolence (turning enemies into His own temple). In our suffering, we can find comfort knowing God reigns even when circumstances suggest otherwise, and He will ultimately answer the prayers of His people.