Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "Hand of God" is a significant biblical metaphor that represents God's power, authority, and active involvement in the world and the lives of individuals. This imagery is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, illustrating various aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity.Divine Power and Sovereignty The "Hand of God" often symbolizes His omnipotence and sovereign control over creation. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet declares, "Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; He weighs the islands as though they were fine dust" (Isaiah 40:15). This passage underscores God's supreme authority and the insignificance of human power in comparison to His mighty hand. Protection and Deliverance The hand of God is frequently associated with protection and deliverance. In the Exodus narrative, God delivers the Israelites from Egyptian bondage with a "mighty hand and an outstretched arm" (Deuteronomy 5:15). This imagery conveys God's intervention and His ability to rescue His people from oppression and danger. Similarly, in the Psalms, David expresses confidence in God's protective hand: "You hem me in behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me" (Psalm 139:5). Judgment and Discipline The hand of God also represents His judgment and discipline. In the book of Daniel, the mysterious handwriting on the wall is interpreted as a divine message of judgment against King Belshazzar: "This is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN" (Daniel 5:25). The hand of God here signifies His authority to judge and hold accountable those who defy His will. Guidance and Provision God's hand is depicted as a source of guidance and provision for His people. In the book of Nehemiah, the leader attributes his success in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls to God's favorable hand: "And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests" (Nehemiah 2:8). This reflects the belief that God's hand directs and provides for those who seek His will. Creation and Sustenance The hand of God is also a metaphor for His role as Creator and Sustainer of life. In the book of Job, the patriarch acknowledges God's creative power: "In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind" (Job 12:10). This emphasizes God's intimate involvement in the ongoing existence and sustenance of all living things. Healing and Restoration In the New Testament, the hand of God is associated with healing and restoration. Jesus often healed the sick by laying His hands on them, demonstrating the divine power at work through Him. In Acts, the apostles pray for boldness and healing, asking that God would "stretch out Your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Your holy servant Jesus" (Acts 4:30). Conclusion The "Hand of God" is a multifaceted biblical symbol that conveys His power, protection, judgment, guidance, creation, and healing. It serves as a reminder of God's active presence and involvement in the world, offering comfort and assurance to believers who trust in His sovereign will. Topical Bible Verses 1 Peter 5:6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Topicalbible.org John 1:14 John 1:1 John 3:16 Ephesians 2:8 Romans 6:23 Greek 595. apothesis -- a putting away ... go") -- properly, a putting off (letting go) to (set something aside); a from a previous obligation; (figuratively) removal, by the supernatural hand of God. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/595.htm - 7k 4401. procheirotoneo -- to appoint beforehand 1783. enteuxis -- a petition, ie spec. supplication 5051. teleiotes -- a completer, finisher 4394. propheteia -- prophecy 1921. epiginosko -- to know exactly, to recognize 5591. psuchikos -- natural, of the soul or mind 5483. charizomai -- to show favor, give freely 5590. psuche -- breath, the soul 2901. krataioo -- to strengthen Strong's Hebrew 5414. nathan -- to give, put, set... giving (37), grant (18), granted (11), growl* (1), had (3), hand over (2 ... thrust, trade, turn, utter, + weep, + willingly, + withdraw, + would (to) God, yield. ... /hebrew/5414.htm - 9k Library Whether it Belongs to Christ as God to Sit at the Right Hand of ... Whether it is Fitting that Christ Should Sit at the Right Hand of ... Christ's Cross and Burial, Resurrection, Ascension, and Sitting ... The Session of Jesus in his Incarnate Nature at the Right Hand of ... December 6. "Humble Yourselves Therefore under the Mighty Hand of ... How is Christ Exalted in his Sitting at the Right Hand of God? August 3. "Humble Yourselves Therefore under the Mighty Hand of ... Easter Day. Evening. If Ye Then be Risen with Christ, Seek those ... Why is it Added, "And Sitteth at the Right Hand of God"? Acknowledging God's Hand. Morning. Resources What is the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hand of Hamsa? | GotQuestions.org Why did oaths involve putting a hand under someone's thigh (Genesis 24:9)? | GotQuestions.org Hand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |