Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "faints" often refers to a state of physical weakness, exhaustion, or spiritual weariness. It is used to describe moments when individuals feel overwhelmed by their circumstances, whether due to physical exertion, emotional distress, or spiritual trials. The concept of fainting is frequently addressed in Scripture, offering both a depiction of human frailty and a reminder of God's sustaining power.Old Testament References 1. Physical Weakness and Exhaustion: In the Old Testament, fainting is sometimes associated with physical exhaustion. For example, in Isaiah 40:30-31, the prophet speaks of the weariness of youth and contrasts it with the strength provided by the Lord: "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." 2. Spiritual Weariness: Fainting can also symbolize spiritual weariness or a lack of faith. In Psalm 27:13, David expresses his confidence in God's goodness despite his trials: "I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living." This verse implies that without faith, one might faint or lose heart. 3. Divine Encouragement: The Old Testament often provides encouragement to those who feel faint. In Deuteronomy 20:3-4, the Israelites are reminded not to faint in the face of battle: "He shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them. For the LORD your God is the One who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory.'" New Testament References 1. Perseverance in Faith: The New Testament continues the theme of perseverance and reliance on God. In Galatians 6:9, Paul encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good: "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." 2. Prayer and Persistence: Jesus addresses the issue of fainting in the context of prayer. In Luke 18:1, He tells a parable to show that they should always pray and not lose heart: "Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart." 3. Strength in Weakness: The Apostle Paul speaks of finding strength in weakness, a concept that counters the idea of fainting. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, he writes about the sufficiency of God's grace: "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me." Theological Implications The biblical concept of fainting underscores the human condition of weakness and the need for divine intervention. It highlights the importance of faith, prayer, and reliance on God's strength. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises and to find renewal and strength through their relationship with Him. The Scriptures consistently point to God as the source of strength and encouragement for those who feel faint, assuring them of His presence and support in times of need. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n. pl.) The impure spirit which comes over first and last in the distillation of whisky; -- the former being called the strong faints, and the latter, which is much more abundant, the weak faints. This crude spirit is much impregnated with fusel oil.Strong's Hebrew 3615. kalah -- to be complete, at an end, finished, accomplished ...... 1), determined (1), devoured (1), died (1), end (4), ended (3), ending (1), exhausted (2), exterminated (1), fail (10), failed (1), fails (2), faints (1), feed ... /hebrew/3615.htm - 7k Library The Death of Christ Prayer and Importunity (Continued) Because Thy Mercy is So Great, Flowers Without Fruit SM "Forever with the Lord. " The Love that Calls us Sons The Thin Life Man's Ruin and God's Remedy St. Stephen's Day and Stephen, Full of Faith and Power, did Great ... The Twenty-Second Chapter: Remember the Innumerable Gifts of God Thesaurus Faints (8 Occurrences)... (n. pl.) The impure spirit which comes over first and last in the distillation of whisky; -- the former being called the strong faints, and the latter, which ... /f/faints.htm - 8k Longs (11 Occurrences) Languishes (11 Occurrences) Longed (24 Occurrences) Gasps (1 Occurrence) Faintness (1 Occurrence) Murderers (9 Occurrences) Spreads (31 Occurrences) Longing (40 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about how to love God? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God rest on the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2)? | GotQuestions.org What is the Valley of Baca in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Faints: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Faints (8 Occurrences)Job 19:27 Psalms 63:1 Psalms 77:3 Psalms 84:2 Psalms 119:81 Psalms 143:4 Isaiah 10:18 Jeremiah 4:31 Subtopics Related Terms |
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