Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of being "petitioned" often relates to the act of making a formal request or appeal, particularly in the context of prayer or supplication to God. The act of petitioning is a significant aspect of the believer's relationship with God, reflecting a dependence on His will and provision.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, petitioning is frequently associated with prayer and supplication. One notable example is found in the account of Hannah, the mother of Samuel. In 1 Samuel 1:10-11 , Hannah is described as being "deeply distressed" and she "prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly." She made a vow, petitioning God for a son, promising to dedicate him to the LORD's service. Her heartfelt petition was granted, and she bore Samuel, whom she dedicated to God as promised. The Psalms also contain numerous examples of petitions to God. David, in particular, often petitioned the Lord for guidance, deliverance, and mercy. Psalm 86:6 states, "Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications." This verse exemplifies the earnestness and humility with which believers are encouraged to approach God. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the act of petitioning is further emphasized in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself taught about the importance of persistent prayer. In Luke 11:9 , He instructs, "So I say to you: Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." This teaching underscores the assurance that God hears and responds to the petitions of His people. The Apostle Paul also highlights the role of petition in the life of a believer. In Philippians 4:6 , he writes, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Here, Paul encourages believers to bring their needs and concerns to God, coupling their petitions with thanksgiving, which reflects trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. Theological Significance Theologically, petitioning God is an acknowledgment of His omnipotence and benevolence. It is an act of faith, recognizing that God is both willing and able to respond to the needs of His people. Petitioning is not merely about presenting a list of desires but is an expression of a deeper relationship with God, characterized by trust, humility, and submission to His will. Petitioning also serves as a reminder of the believer's dependence on God. It is an act of worship, as it acknowledges God's authority and the believer's reliance on His grace and mercy. Through petition, believers are invited to participate in God's work, aligning their desires with His purposes and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life. Practical Application In practical terms, believers are encouraged to approach God with their petitions regularly, with a heart of faith and expectancy. The act of petitioning should be accompanied by a willingness to accept God's will, whether or not it aligns with personal desires. As seen in the example of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He petitioned the Father, saying, "Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42), believers are called to submit their petitions with a spirit of surrender to God's perfect plan. In summary, the biblical concept of being "petitioned" encompasses the practice of making requests to God, rooted in a relationship of trust and submission. It is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting a heart that seeks God's will and relies on His provision. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Petition.Library John Chapter xvi. 16-23. A Sedition of the Philadelphians against the Jews; and Also Epistle xvii. This Epistle was Written when Symmachus Sent his ... A Personal Experience. Question Lxxxiii of Prayer Jacob-Wrestling Unionism in the Ascendency. Lutherans in South Carolina. Chap. xxxviii. But that which Distinguished his Character, and in ... For the Sake of a Nation. Thesaurus Petitioned (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Petition. Multi-Version Concordance Petitioned (2 Occurrences). Acts 25:24 Festus said, "King ... /p/petitioned.htm - 7k Petitions (24 Occurrences) Petition (33 Occurrences) Loudly (31 Occurrences) Lycia (1 Occurrence) Gentlemen (1 Occurrence) Declaring (48 Occurrences) Community (77 Occurrences) Agrippa (12 Occurrences) Appealed (19 Occurrences) Resources What is the Anglican Church, and what do Anglicans believe? | GotQuestions.orgIs worship of saints / Mary biblical? | GotQuestions.org Who was Herod Agrippa II? | GotQuestions.org Petitioned: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Petitioned (2 Occurrences)Acts 25:24 Ezra 8:23 Subtopics Related Terms |