Topical Encyclopedia The term "restive" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept can be explored through various scriptural themes and narratives that address restlessness, impatience, and resistance to authority or guidance. In a biblical context, restiveness can be understood as a state of unease or unwillingness to submit to God's will, often leading to spiritual and moral consequences.Biblical Examples and Themes: 1. Israel's Restiveness in the Wilderness: The Israelites' journey through the wilderness is a prime example of restiveness. Despite witnessing God's miraculous deliverance from Egypt, the Israelites frequently displayed impatience and disobedience. In Exodus 32, they grew restless waiting for Moses to return from Mount Sinai and constructed a golden calf to worship, demonstrating their inability to remain steadfast in faith. This act of rebellion resulted in severe consequences, as God punished them for their idolatry. Exodus 32:8 (BSB): "How quickly they have turned aside from the way I commanded them! They have made for themselves a molten calf, have bowed down to it, sacrificed to it, and said, ‘These, O Israel, are your gods, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.’" 2. King Saul's Impatience: King Saul's restiveness is evident in his failure to wait for the prophet Samuel to offer sacrifices before a battle with the Philistines. In 1 Samuel 13, Saul's impatience led him to unlawfully perform the priestly duty himself, resulting in God's rejection of his kingship. 1 Samuel 13:13-14 (BSB): "You have acted foolishly, Samuel declared. You have not kept the command that the LORD your God gave you; if you had, He would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after His own heart and appointed him ruler of His people, because you have not kept the LORD’s command." 3. The Restlessness of the Wicked: The Bible often contrasts the peace of the righteous with the restlessness of the wicked. In Isaiah 57:20-21, the wicked are described as being like the turbulent sea, unable to find peace due to their sinful nature. Isaiah 57:20-21 (BSB): "But the wicked are like the storm-tossed sea, which cannot rest, whose waves cast up mire and muck. 'There is no peace,' says my God, 'for the wicked.'" 4. The Call to Rest in God: In contrast to restiveness, Scripture calls believers to find rest in God. Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest, emphasizing the peace and contentment found in submission to His lordship. Matthew 11:28-29 (BSB): "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Spiritual Implications: Restiveness in a spiritual sense often stems from a lack of trust in God's timing and purposes. It can manifest as impatience, rebellion, or a refusal to submit to divine authority. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate patience, faith, and obedience, trusting in God's sovereignty and perfect plan. Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, Christians are called to overcome restiveness and embrace the peace that comes from a life surrendered to God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Unwilling to go on; obstinate in refusing to move forward; stubborn; drawing back.2. (a.) Inactive; sluggish. 3. (a.) Impatient under coercion, chastisement, or opposition; refractory. 4. (a.) Uneasy; restless; averse to standing still; fidgeting about; -- applied especially to horses. Library The Bishop at Work Soul-Rest. Jeroboam The Wonderful Skill with which Origen Prepares Gregory and ... As the Foam Upon Water About the Book Tee Advice of Hotep "He Hardened his Heart" In Step with Jesus. See, World! Thy Life Assailed. Thesaurus Restive (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Restive (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 2:23 How are you able to say, I am not unclean, I have not gone after the Baals? ... /r/restive.htm - 7k Restless (6 Occurrences) Restitution (21 Occurrences) Resources Restive: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Restive (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 2:23 Subtopics Related Terms |