Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In the biblical context, "strengthening" refers to the act of making something stronger or more resilient, whether it be physical, spiritual, or emotional. It is often associated with God's power and presence, enabling believers to endure trials, overcome obstacles, and grow in faith. Old Testament References The concept of strengthening is prevalent throughout the Old Testament, where God frequently strengthens His people for various tasks and challenges. In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures His people, saying, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness." Here, God promises His divine support and strength to those who trust in Him. In the historical narratives, we see examples of God strengthening individuals for specific purposes. For instance, in 1 Samuel 30:6, David finds strength in the Lord during a time of great distress: "But David found strength in the LORD his God." This illustrates the personal and direct nature of divine strengthening. New Testament References The New Testament continues the theme of strengthening, particularly through the work of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of Jesus Christ. In Philippians 4:13, the Apostle Paul declares, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." This verse highlights the belief that Christ empowers believers to face any circumstance. In Ephesians 3:16, Paul prays for the believers, "that out of the riches of His glory He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being." This prayer emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in providing inner strength to Christians, enabling them to live out their faith. Spiritual Strengthening Spiritual strengthening is a key aspect of the Christian life. It involves growing in faith, understanding, and reliance on God. The process often includes prayer, reading Scripture, and fellowship with other believers. In Colossians 1:11, Paul prays that the Colossians be "strengthened with all power according to His glorious might, so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully." Trials and Perseverance Strengthening is often linked to enduring trials and developing perseverance. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for growth: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Role of Community The Christian community plays a vital role in strengthening one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage underscores the importance of mutual encouragement and support within the body of Christ. Conclusion The biblical concept of strengthening encompasses divine empowerment, spiritual growth, and communal support. It is a multifaceted theme that underscores the necessity of God's presence and the believer's active participation in the journey of faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Strengthen.2. (a.) That strengthens; giving or increasing strength. Greek 1991. episterizo -- to make stronger ... Word Origin from epi and sterizo Definition to make stronger NASB Word Usage strengthened (1), strengthening (2). confirm, strengthen. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1991.htm - 7k 5420. phrasso -- to fence in, to stop 2480. ischuo -- to be strong, have power 4741. sterizo -- to make fast, establish 3364. ou me -- anymore, at all, neither, never 1765. enischuo -- to strengthen 1222. depou -- of course, surely 5106. toinun -- accordingly, therefore Strong's Hebrew 2388. chazaq -- to be or grow firm or strong, strengthen... 6), seizes (2), severe (5), show ourselves courageous (2), snaps shut (1), stands firmly (1), strengthen (12), strengthened (19), strengthening (1), strong (31 ... /hebrew/2388.htm - 8k Library The Best Strengthening Medicine Angels from Heaven Strengthening Him. LM Anonymous. Angels from Heaven Strengthening Him. Whether Humility Has to do with the Appetite? C. The Agony in Gethsemane. Ch. 22:39-46 On the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Ghost The Golden Rule of Life. When Lord Morley Said that the House of Lords must be Either ... On the Words of the Gospel, Luke xviii. 1,"They Ought Always to ... 'In the Holy Mount' Thesaurus Strengthening (23 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Strengthening (23 Occurrences). Luke 22:43 An angel from heaven appeared to him, strengthening him. (WEB KJV WEY ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS). ... /s/strengthening.htm - 13k Bracing (1 Occurrence) Confirmation (3 Occurrences) Ahab (85 Occurrences) Strengtheneth (28 Occurrences) Rehoboam (42 Occurrences) Visiting (10 Occurrences) Galatian (3 Occurrences) Fullness (31 Occurrences) Traveling (22 Occurrences) Resources What is the Christian view of Pilates? | GotQuestions.orgIs praying the rosary scriptural? | GotQuestions.org Is the idea of chi compatible with the Christian faith? | GotQuestions.org Strengthening: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Strengthening (23 Occurrences)Luke 22:43 Acts 14:22 Acts 15:41 Acts 18:23 1 Corinthians 14:3 1 Corinthians 14:26 2 Corinthians 12:19 Philippians 4:13 Exodus 14:17 Ruth 1:18 2 Samuel 3:6 2 Kings 12:7 1 Chronicles 11:10 2 Chronicles 12:1 2 Chronicles 28:20 Proverbs 8:28 Proverbs 24:5 Song of Songs 7:9 Isaiah 41:13 Ezekiel 13:22 Ezekiel 27:9 Daniel 10:21 Daniel 11:6 Subtopics Related Terms |