In the context of the Bible, the term "striver" can be understood as one who contends, struggles, or makes a diligent effort, often in the pursuit of righteousness, faith, or spiritual goals. The concept of striving is woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the importance of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of holiness in the life of a believer.

Old Testament Context

The idea of striving is evident in the Old Testament, where individuals often contend with God, others, or themselves in their spiritual journeys. Jacob is a quintessential example of a striver. In Genesis 32:24-28, Jacob wrestles with a divine being until daybreak, refusing to let go until he receives a blessing. This encounter earns him the name Israel, meaning "he struggles with God." This narrative illustrates the perseverance and determination required in one's relationship with God.

Proverbs also speaks to the concept of striving, particularly in the pursuit of wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 2:3-5 states, "if you indeed call out for insight and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God." Here, striving is depicted as an earnest search for divine wisdom.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently uses athletic metaphors to describe the Christian life as a race or a struggle. In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable." This passage emphasizes the discipline and effort required to live a life pleasing to God.

Paul further elaborates on the theme of striving in Philippians 3:12-14 : "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been perfected, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus." Here, striving is portrayed as a forward-looking endeavor, focused on the ultimate goal of eternal life with Christ.

Spiritual Striving

The Bible also addresses the internal struggle against sin and the flesh. In Romans 7:21-25 , Paul describes the inner conflict experienced by believers: "So this is the principle I have discovered: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law. But I see another law at work in my body, warring against the law of my mind and holding me captive to the law of sin that dwells within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord!" This passage highlights the ongoing battle between the desire to follow God's law and the sinful nature inherent in humanity.

Striving in Prayer

Striving is also evident in the context of prayer. Colossians 4:12 mentions Epaphras, who is described as "always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand mature and fully assured in the full will of God." This illustrates the fervent and persistent nature of prayer as a form of spiritual striving.

Conclusion

The concept of striving in the Bible underscores the importance of perseverance, discipline, and dedication in the Christian life. Whether in the pursuit of wisdom, the race of faith, the battle against sin, or the fervency of prayer, striving is a vital aspect of a believer's journey toward spiritual maturity and closeness with God.(n.) One who strives.

The Realization of Selfless Love
... fall, every return to selfishness is a lesson learned, an experience gained, from
which a golden grain of wisdom is extracted, helping the striver toward the ...
/.../allen/the way of peace/the realization of selfless love.htm

On the Morrow of the Transfiguration
... And so these words have to all time remained the teaching to every individual striver
in the battle of the higher life, and to the Church as a whole - the in ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter ii on the morrow.htm

Eighth Tractate. Nature Contemplation and the One.
... it has communicated to the Intellect that contemplates it: thus all the striving
is on the side of the Intellect, which is the eternal striver and eternally ...
/.../plotinus/the six enneads/eighth tractate nature contemplation and.htm

Striver (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Striver (2 Occurrences). Job 40:2 Is the striver with
the Mighty instructed? The reprover of God, let him answer it. (YLT). ...
/s/striver.htm - 7k

Striven (10 Occurrences)

/s/striven.htm - 9k

Reprover (7 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Reprover (7 Occurrences). Job 40:2 Is the striver with
the Mighty instructed? The reprover of God, let him answer it. (YLT). ...
/r/reprover.htm - 8k

Strivers (1 Occurrence)

/s/strivers.htm - 6k

Instructed (80 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT RSV NIV). Job 40:2 Is the striver with the Mighty
instructed? The reprover of God, let him answer it. (YLT). ...
/i/instructed.htm - 29k

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