Topical Encyclopedia The term "distraught" refers to a state of deep distress, agitation, or mental conflict. In the context of the Bible, individuals often experience moments of being distraught due to various trials, tribulations, or spiritual struggles. The Scriptures provide numerous examples of people who faced such emotional turmoil, offering insights into the human condition and the divine response to human suffering.Biblical Examples: 1. Hannah's Anguish: In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah is described as being deeply distressed due to her inability to bear children. Her rival, Peninnah, provoked her, causing her great emotional pain. Hannah's response was to pour out her soul before the LORD in prayer. "In her deep anguish, Hannah prayed to the LORD, weeping bitterly" (1 Samuel 1:10). Her account highlights the importance of turning to God in times of distress. 2. David's Despair: King David often found himself in situations that left him distraught. In Psalm 6, he expresses his deep emotional turmoil: "I am weary from groaning; all night I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears" (Psalm 6:6). David's psalms frequently reflect his honest emotions and his reliance on God for comfort and deliverance. 3. Jesus in Gethsemane: The Gospels recount Jesus' time in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He experienced profound distress as He anticipated His crucifixion. "And being in anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground" (Luke 22:44). Jesus' experience underscores the reality of human suffering and the importance of seeking the Father's will even in the most trying circumstances. 4. Paul's Trials: The Apostle Paul faced numerous hardships that left him in states of distress. In 2 Corinthians 1:8, he writes, "We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the hardships we encountered in Asia. We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life" . Despite his trials, Paul found strength in God's grace and the hope of eternal life. Theological Insights: The Bible acknowledges the reality of being distraught as part of the human experience. It does not shy away from depicting the raw emotions of its characters. However, it consistently points to God as the ultimate source of comfort and strength. Believers are encouraged to cast their anxieties on Him, as stated in 1 Peter 5:7: "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you" . The Scriptures also emphasize the role of prayer and community in dealing with distress. Philippians 4:6-7 advises believers, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" . This passage highlights the transformative power of prayer and the peace that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty. Practical Application: For those experiencing distress, the Bible offers both comfort and guidance. It encourages believers to seek God earnestly in prayer, to rely on His promises, and to find solace in the community of faith. The examples of biblical figures who faced distress serve as reminders that God is present in times of trouble and that He provides strength and hope to those who seek Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Deeply agitated, anxious, distracted.2. (a.) Torn asunder; separated. 3. (a.) Distracted; perplexed. Library Concerning "Wisdom," "Mind," "Reason," "Truth," "Faith. " Literary Expressions The Arts by which Origen Studies to Keep Gregory and his Brother ... Here, to the Things Thou Hast Thought Meet to Inquire of Me... Hymn for the Epiphany Eighth Tractate. On Free-Will and the Will of the One. On Contempt for Pain, Poverty, and Other External Things. May-Time in War. Whether Fear is a Special Passion? To the Monks of Constantinople. Thesaurus Distraught (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Distraught (2 Occurrences). Psalms 55:2 Attend unto me, and answer me: I am restless in my complaint, and moan, (See JPS RSV NIV). ... /d/distraught.htm - 7k Distracted (3 Occurrences) Distrain (1 Occurrence) Mephibosheth (13 Occurrences) Distress (169 Occurrences) Resources How can I help someone who is suicidal? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Dathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why was a father's blessing so highly valued in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Distraught: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Distraught (2 Occurrences)Psalms 55:2 Hosea 4:14 Subtopics Related Terms |