Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the concept of "frustrates" often relates to the thwarting of plans, purposes, or intentions, whether they be human or divine. The term can be understood as the act of preventing the accomplishment of a goal or desire, often highlighting the sovereignty of God over human affairs.Divine Frustration of Human Plans The Bible frequently illustrates that God has the ultimate authority to frustrate the plans of humans when they are contrary to His divine will. In the Book of Job, it is declared, "He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success" (Job 5:12). This passage underscores the belief that human wisdom and cunning are ultimately subject to God's sovereign control. Similarly, in Psalm 33:10, it is written, "The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations; He thwarts the devices of the peoples." This verse emphasizes that no matter how powerful or well-conceived the plans of nations or individuals may be, they cannot prevail against the purposes of God. The sovereignty of God is a recurring theme, demonstrating that His will is supreme over all earthly powers. Human Frustration in the Face of Divine Will The Bible also acknowledges the frustration experienced by humans when their desires or plans are not aligned with God's will. In the Book of Proverbs, it is noted, "Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail" (Proverbs 19:21). This proverb serves as a reminder that while humans may devise numerous plans, it is ultimately God's purpose that will be accomplished. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, often speaks to the frustration of human efforts apart from God. In Romans 8:20, Paul writes, "For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope." Here, the term "futility" can be understood as a form of frustration, indicating that creation itself is in a state of longing and anticipation for the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. God's Frustration of Evil The Bible also portrays God as actively frustrating the efforts of evil. In the account of the Tower of Babel, God confounds the language of the people to prevent them from completing their project, which was rooted in pride and self-exaltation (Genesis 11:1-9). This act of divine intervention serves as a powerful example of God frustrating human endeavors that are contrary to His will. In the New Testament, the ultimate frustration of evil is seen in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The crucifixion, which appeared to be a victory for evil, was in fact the means by which God accomplished His plan of salvation. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8, "No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." Conclusion The theme of frustration in the Bible serves to highlight the tension between human free will and divine sovereignty. While humans may experience frustration when their plans are thwarted, the biblical narrative consistently points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes. Through the frustration of human and evil plans, God's wisdom and sovereignty are revealed, assuring believers that His will is both good and perfect. Strong's Hebrew 6565a. parar -- to break, frustrate... 4), annulled (1), break (12), breaking (3), broke (4), broken (7), cease (1), do away (1), fail (1), frustrate (2), frustrated (2), frustrates (1), indeed ... /hebrew/6565a.htm - 5k 5106. nu -- to hinder, restrain, frustrate Library The Second Petition Is, Thy Kingdom Come. ... Grundtvig's Hymns Epistle Lxxii. To Jubaianus, Concerning the Baptism of Heretics. Paul at Athens The Shipwreck of Pilate From John Yeardley's Conversion to the Commencement of his Public ... The Romance of M. Renan. By Napoleon Roussel. Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of ... Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ... Thesaurus Frustrates (5 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Frustrates (5 Occurrences). Job 5:12 He frustrates the devices of the crafty, So that their hands can't perform their enterprise. ... /f/frustrates.htm - 7k Frustrated (7 Occurrences) Liars (14 Occurrences) Frustrateth (3 Occurrences) Enterprise (1 Occurrence) Devices (43 Occurrences) Diviners (14 Occurrences) Plotting (13 Occurrences) Plans (55 Occurrences) Blight (5 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Vineyard? | GotQuestions.orgWhy should we worship God? | GotQuestions.org Why should I trust God even when I don't understand who He is or what He is doing? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Frustrates (5 Occurrences)Job 5:12 Psalms 33:10 Psalms 146:9 Proverbs 22:12 Isaiah 44:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |