Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Toughness, in a biblical sense, refers to the quality of enduring hardship, adversity, and trials with steadfast faith and resilience. It is the ability to withstand challenges and remain firm in one's convictions and trust in God. This concept is closely related to perseverance, endurance, and strength, which are frequently addressed in Scripture. Biblical Examples and Teachings: 1. Job's Endurance: The account of Job is a profound example of toughness. Despite losing his wealth, health, and family, Job remained steadfast in his faith. He questioned and struggled, yet he did not curse God. Job's resilience is highlighted in Job 1:21-22 : "Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD." Through his trials, Job exemplifies toughness by maintaining his integrity and trust in God. 2. Paul's Perseverance: The Apostle Paul faced numerous hardships, including imprisonment, beatings, and shipwrecks. His toughness is evident in his letters, where he often speaks of enduring for the sake of the Gospel. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-27 , Paul recounts his sufferings, yet he remains committed to his mission. His resilience is further emphasized in Philippians 4:13 : "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." 3. Jesus' Suffering and Sacrifice: Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of toughness. He endured the cross, despising its shame, for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). His willingness to suffer and die for humanity's sins demonstrates unparalleled strength and resilience. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed fervently, yet submitted to the Father's will, saying, "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). 4. Encouragement to Believers: The Bible encourages believers to develop toughness in their spiritual walk. James 1:2-4 states, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." This passage highlights the importance of enduring trials to grow in faith and character. 5. The Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the Armor of God, which equips believers to stand firm against spiritual challenges. The passage begins with the exhortation, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power" (Ephesians 6:10). The armor symbolizes the spiritual toughness required to withstand the schemes of the devil and remain faithful. Theological Implications: Toughness is not merely a human trait but is deeply rooted in one's relationship with God. It is through reliance on God's strength and grace that believers can endure trials. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians to develop resilience, enabling them to face life's challenges with courage and faith. Toughness is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the sustaining presence of God in the believer's life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The quality or state of being tough.Strong's Hebrew 5326. nitsbah -- firmness... 5325, 5326. nitsbah. 5327 . firmness. Transliteration: nitsbah Phonetic Spelling: (nits-baw') Short Definition: toughness. Word ... /hebrew/5326.htm - 6k 766. oren -- fir, cedar Library Mr. Bernard Shaw The Heart-Strings of God. Change not Always Improvement. Whether the Body of Man was Given an Apt Disposition? The Education of the World. Thesaurus Toughness (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The quality or state of being tough. Multi-Version Concordance Toughness (1 Occurrence). Daniel 2:41 ... /t/toughness.htm - 6k Tour (1 Occurrence) Reaping (10 Occurrences) Strength (517 Occurrences) Ostrich (9 Occurrences) Touching (121 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to set your face like flint in Isaiah 50:7? | GotQuestions.orgToughness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Toughness (1 Occurrence)Daniel 2:41 Subtopics Related Terms |