The term "refraineth" is an archaic form of the verb "refrain," which means to hold back, abstain, or restrain oneself from doing something. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the act of exercising self-control or restraint, particularly in speech, actions, or desires. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical teachings on wisdom, righteousness, and the fruit of the Spirit.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Self-Control and Wisdom: The Bible frequently associates the act of refraining with wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 10:19 states, "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." This verse highlights the importance of controlling one's speech, suggesting that wisdom is demonstrated through the ability to refrain from excessive or harmful words.

2. Righteousness and Holiness: Refraining from sin and evil is a recurring theme in Scripture. Psalm 34:13 advises, "Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech." Here, the act of refraining is linked to living a life of righteousness and holiness, emphasizing the moral responsibility to avoid sin.

3. Patience and Endurance: The concept of refraining is also connected to patience and endurance. James 1:19 instructs, "My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger." This passage encourages believers to refrain from hasty reactions, promoting a spirit of patience and understanding.

4. Spiritual Discipline: Refraining is an aspect of spiritual discipline, as seen in the teachings of the New Testament. In 1 Corinthians 9:27 , the Apostle Paul writes, "No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Paul speaks of refraining from bodily desires to maintain spiritual integrity and effectiveness in ministry.

5. Love and Relationships: In the context of relationships, refraining from certain actions or words can be an expression of love and respect. Ephesians 4:29 advises, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." This verse underscores the importance of refraining from harmful speech to foster loving and edifying relationships.

Theological Implications

The act of refraining is not merely about abstaining from negative behaviors but is deeply connected to the pursuit of godliness and the development of Christian character. It reflects a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, manifesting the fruit of self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Refraining is an expression of obedience to God's commandments and a demonstration of love for Him and others.

In summary, "refraineth" in the biblical sense encompasses a wide range of applications, from controlling one's speech and actions to exercising spiritual discipline and fostering healthy relationships. It is a vital aspect of living a life that honors God and reflects His character.

At the Manger.
... Thy Brother ne'er Thy misery disdaineth; His gracious heart Feels every
smart, Nor when He sees Our woe, from tears refraineth. ...
/.../gerhardt/paul gerhardts spiritual songs/at the manger.htm

April 11 Morning
... APRIL 11 MORNING. In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he
that refraineth his lips is wise."PROV.10:19. My beloved ...
/.../anonymous/daily light on the daily path/april 11 morning.htm

Whether Parish Priests and Archdeacons are More Perfect than ...
... to wish to avoid the obstacles to virtue, according to the saying of the Apostle
(1:Cor.9:25), "Everyone that striveth for the mastery refraineth himself from ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether parish priests and archdeacons.htm

Of Evil-Speaking in General.
... A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. He that
refraineth his tongue is wise. In the tongue of the wise is health. ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/of evil-speaking in general.htm

Refraineth (2 Occurrences)
...Refraineth (2 Occurrences). Genesis 43:31 and he washeth his face, and goeth
out, and refraineth himself, and saith, 'Place bread.' (YLT). ...
/r/refraineth.htm - 6k

Refrained (14 Occurrences)

/r/refrained.htm - 10k

Washeth (4 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Washeth (4 Occurrences). Genesis 43:31 and he washeth
his face, and goeth out, and refraineth himself, and saith, 'Place bread.' (YLT) ...
/w/washeth.htm - 7k

Wanteth (7 Occurrences)
... WBS). Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but
he that refraineth his lips is wise. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). ...
/w/wanteth.htm - 8k

Refrains (3 Occurrences)

/r/refrains.htm - 7k

Transgression (70 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT). Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth
not transgression; But he that refraineth his lips doeth wisely. ...
/t/transgression.htm - 29k

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