Topical Encyclopedia The term "befalls" refers to events or circumstances that happen or occur, often unexpectedly, in the life of an individual or a group. In the biblical context, what befalls a person or nation is often seen as part of God's sovereign plan, whether as a blessing, a test, or a judgment. The Bible provides numerous examples of events that befall individuals and nations, illustrating the divine orchestration of history and personal lives.Divine Sovereignty and Providence The concept of events befalling individuals is deeply rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and providence. Proverbs 16:33 states, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." This verse underscores the belief that nothing happens by chance; rather, everything that befalls a person is under God's control and purpose. Examples in Scripture 1. Joseph: One of the most illustrative accounts of events befalling an individual is that of Joseph. Betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, Joseph's life seemed to be marked by misfortune. However, Genesis 50:20 reveals the divine purpose behind these events: "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people." Joseph's trials ultimately led to his rise to power in Egypt and the preservation of his family during famine. 2. Job: The account of Job is another profound example. Job 1:1-22 describes how calamity befell Job, a man described as "blameless and upright." Despite losing his wealth, children, and health, Job's response to what befell him was one of faith and perseverance. Job 1:21 records his words: "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD." 3. Israel: The nation of Israel experienced numerous events that befell them as a result of their covenant relationship with God. Blessings and curses were promised based on their obedience or disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). When Israel turned away from God, calamities befell them, such as the Babylonian exile, which was a direct consequence of their idolatry and disobedience (2 Kings 24:10-16). Human Responsibility and Divine Justice While God is sovereign over all that befalls individuals and nations, the Bible also emphasizes human responsibility. Galatians 6:7 warns, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This principle highlights that while God may allow certain events to befall individuals, they often result from human actions and choices. Trust in God's Plan Believers are encouraged to trust in God's plan, even when faced with difficult circumstances. Romans 8:28 assures, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This promise provides comfort and hope, affirming that whatever befalls a believer is ultimately for their good and God's glory. In summary, the concept of what befalls individuals and nations in the Bible is intricately linked to God's sovereign will, human responsibility, and the unfolding of divine justice and mercy. Through the narratives and teachings of Scripture, believers are called to trust in God's providential care and to remain faithful amidst life's uncertainties. Greek 3804. pathema -- that which befalls one, ie a suffering, a passion ... that which befalls one, ie a suffering, a passion. Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: pathema Phonetic Spelling: (path'-ay-mah) Short Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3804.htm - 8k 3806. pathos -- that which befalls one, a passion, a suffering Strong's Hebrew 7136a. qarah -- to encounter, meet, befall... root Definition to encounter, meet, befall NASB Word Usage befall (1), befalls (2), come (3), come true (1), grant me success (1), happen (2), happened (4 ... /hebrew/7136a.htm - 5k 579. anah -- to be opportune, to meet, encounter opportunely 935. bo -- to come in, come, go in, go Library The Judges Said: Convertibility Translates the Person whom it ... Even Unburied Bodies Will be Raised Again Whatever Befalls them ... And Leaving all These Reflections, I Considered and Turned in ... A vision of Judgement and Cleansing The Third Season Submission and Peace On Divine Providence Demonstration xxii. --Of Death and the Latter Times. The Prayer of Stephen. The True Branches of the True vine Thesaurus Befalls (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Befalls (6 Occurrences). Genesis 44:29 and if ye take this one also from me, and harm befall him, ye will ... /b/befalls.htm - 7k Fortune (7 Occurrences) Damn Damnation (11 Occurrences) Damnable (1 Occurrence) Befalleth (3 Occurrences) Befel (1 Occurrence) Case (138 Occurrences) Chance (78 Occurrences) Resources What is the definition of evil? | GotQuestions.orgDoes God promise to not give us more than we can handle? | GotQuestions.org What did it mean to be devoted to destruction? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Befalls (6 Occurrences)Genesis 44:29 Job 3:25 Proverbs 12:21 Proverbs 15:6 Ecclesiastes 2:14 Ecclesiastes 2:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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