Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of "suspends" can be understood in various contexts, often relating to the idea of holding something in abeyance or delaying action. The Bible, while not using the exact term "suspends," provides numerous instances where God or individuals delay or withhold action for a specific purpose or divine reason.Divine Patience and Judgment: One of the most significant themes related to suspension in the Bible is God's patience and the delay of judgment. In 2 Peter 3:9 , it is written, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." This passage highlights God's merciful suspension of immediate judgment to allow time for repentance and salvation. Testing and Trials: The concept of suspension is also evident in the testing of faith. In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac. The act is suspended at the last moment when God provides a ram as a substitute. This suspension serves to test Abraham's faith and obedience, demonstrating that God sometimes delays action to reveal deeper truths and strengthen faith. Intercession and Mercy: In Exodus 32, after the Israelites create the golden calf, God expresses His intention to destroy them. However, Moses intercedes, and God's wrath is suspended. Exodus 32:14 states, "So the LORD relented from the calamity He had threatened to bring on His people." This suspension of judgment underscores the power of intercession and God's willingness to show mercy. Prophetic Delays: The Bible also records instances where prophetic events are suspended or delayed. In the book of Daniel, the prophet receives visions of future events that are to be sealed and suspended until the appointed time (Daniel 12:9). This indicates that God's plans unfold according to His divine timetable, often beyond human understanding. Sabbath and Rest: The concept of suspension is inherent in the observance of the Sabbath, where regular work is suspended to honor God and rest. Exodus 20:10 commands, "But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God; on it you shall not do any work." This suspension of labor serves as a reminder of God's creation and His provision for rest and renewal. Judicial Suspension: In the New Testament, the account of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) illustrates a suspension of judgment. The accusers seek to stone her, but Jesus intervenes, saying, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her" (John 8:7). The accusers leave, and Jesus tells the woman, "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more" (John 8:11). This act of suspension emphasizes grace and the opportunity for repentance. Throughout Scripture, the theme of suspension serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty, mercy, and the unfolding of His divine plan. Whether through delayed judgment, testing, or the observance of rest, the Bible illustrates that God's timing and purposes are perfect, often requiring patience and faith from His people. Library Treats of How God Suspends the Soul in Prayer by a Trance, Ecstasy ... What we Can Ourselves Do. The Evil of Desiring to Attain to ... The Difference Between Union and Rapture. What Rapture Is. The ... The Interior Castle, or The Mansions Grieving the Holy Spirit Blind Force or Intelligence, Which? Excellency of the Christian Institution. Of the Presence of God Isaiah V. 1. Matt. xiii. 24-30. Thesaurus Suspends (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Suspends (1 Occurrence). Job 26:7 He stretches out the north over empty space, and hangs the earth on nothing. (See NIV). ... /s/suspends.htm - 6k Suspense (6 Occurrences) Lance (7 Occurrences) Suspended (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Suspends (1 Occurrence)Job 26:7 Subtopics Related Terms |