Instead we find that tribulation, which is another word for affliction, is something experienced by every follower of Messiah. Tribulation does not refer to ordinary problems of life. Rather, it speaks to those afflictions which come to God's people at the hands of Satan or his minions. We know tribulation and God's wrath are not the same. Tribulation comes horizontally from men operating under Satan's control.
Wrath is vertical judgment poured out from above.
Though tribulation is common to all ages, the Bible indicates that in the last days it will intensify. In the Book of the Revelation, John saw a multitude of people before the throne of God. To begin, there is a definite article. That implies that the degree of affliction will be unparalleled. Forty-two months before the end of the age, God will instruct the angels to throw Satan out of heaven.