Topical Bible: Afflictions and Adversities: Resignation in Against his House Were Foretold

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In the biblical narrative, afflictions and adversities are often depicted as instruments through which God accomplishes His divine purposes. The theme of resignation in the face of foretold adversities is a recurring motif, particularly in the context of divine judgment against a household or lineage. This theme underscores the sovereignty of God and the necessity of submission to His will, even when it involves suffering or loss.

One of the most poignant examples of this theme is found in the account of Eli, the high priest of Israel, whose house was subjected to divine judgment due to the sins of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. The prophet Samuel, as a young boy, received a revelation from God concerning the impending judgment against Eli's house. In 1 Samuel 3:11-14 , the Lord declares to Samuel, "Behold, I am about to do something in Israel at which both ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle. On that day I will carry out against Eli everything I have spoken about his house, from beginning to end. I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity he knows about: because his sons have defiled themselves, and he did not restrain them. Therefore, I have sworn to the house of Eli, 'The iniquity of Eli's house shall never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.'"

Eli's response to this dire prophecy is one of resignation and acceptance of God's will. In 1 Samuel 3:18 , after Samuel relays the message, Eli responds, "He is the LORD. Let Him do what is good in His eyes." This response reflects a profound submission to God's sovereignty, acknowledging that the divine will is ultimately just and righteous, even when it involves personal loss and suffering.

The resignation of Eli serves as a model of faith and submission in the face of divine judgment. It highlights the importance of recognizing God's authority and the necessity of accepting His decrees, even when they bring adversity. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, where individuals and nations are called to submit to God's will, trusting in His ultimate wisdom and justice.

The concept of resignation in the face of foretold adversities is not limited to Eli's account. It is a broader biblical principle that can be seen in the lives of other figures, such as Job, who, despite immense suffering, declares, "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). Similarly, Jesus Christ, in His human nature, exemplifies perfect submission to the Father's will, even unto death, as He prays in the Garden of Gethsemane, "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42).

In conclusion, the theme of resignation in the face of foretold adversities serves as a powerful reminder of the need for humility and trust in God's sovereign plan. It calls believers to a posture of faith, recognizing that God's purposes, though sometimes inscrutable, are ultimately for His glory and the good of those who love Him.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 3:15-18
And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of the LORD. And Samuel feared to show Eli the vision.
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