[skeptoid]

" Now, about "trusting in his afflictions" . . . . . . ? " 
Did not the bible say ? that we will have trials ? to perfect us ? to help us grow ? to purge us ? 
Does not God's word tell us not to be surprised of our trials ? because it is building our faith, GOD is trying to promote patients in us with our trials...
Does not the bible tell us that GOD chastises us ? as a loving father ? 
Did not JOB say " though he slay me, yet will I trust him " ?

So the afflictions are His (God's) afflictions.
Does He cause the afflictions?
What is being purged from us?
....to promote patients in us ...... You must mean 'patience'.
Your questions seem to be rhetorical, but I'd sure like to hear chapter and verse from you.

[skeptoid]

Where are you, A. C.??

[American Constitutionalist]

" Your questions seem to be rhetorical, but I'd sure like to hear chapter and verse from you. "

Yes, I agree with you on that, my mistake, I should have put chapters and verse numbers with that, yes, I own up to my mistake, but, check it out for yourself, it's there.... I should not have the need to tell you those things..