Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "bread of adversity" is a metaphorical expression that signifies a period of severe trial, hardship, or suffering. This phrase is rooted in the imagery of bread as a basic sustenance, juxtaposed with adversity to convey the notion of consuming hardship as one would consume daily bread. The concept is primarily derived from Isaiah 30:20, which states, "Though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your Teacher will no longer hide Himself, but your eyes will see your Teacher."Context and Interpretation The "bread of adversity" is often understood within the broader context of divine discipline and correction. In Isaiah 30, the prophet addresses the people of Judah, who were facing the threat of Assyrian invasion due to their disobedience and reliance on foreign alliances rather than trusting in God. The "bread of adversity" symbolizes the hardships they would endure as a consequence of their actions, yet it also carries a redemptive purpose. Through these trials, the people are drawn back to reliance on God, who remains their ultimate Teacher and guide. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the "bread of adversity" serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His use of trials to refine and strengthen His people. It underscores the belief that suffering is not without purpose; rather, it is a tool used by God to bring about spiritual growth and maturity. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to view trials as opportunities for perseverance and character development (James 1:2-4). Practical Application In the life of a believer, encountering the "bread of adversity" can be a profound experience that tests faith and reliance on God. It calls for a response of trust and submission, recognizing that God is present even in the midst of suffering. The assurance that "your eyes will see your Teacher" offers hope and comfort, affirming that God’s guidance and presence are constant, even when circumstances are challenging. Conclusion The "bread of adversity" is a powerful biblical metaphor that encapsulates the reality of suffering as part of the human experience, particularly within the context of divine discipline. It invites believers to embrace trials with faith, trusting in God's ultimate purpose and His promise to reveal Himself through the journey. As such, it serves as both a warning against disobedience and a testament to the redemptive power of God's love and instruction. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 30:20And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not your teachers be removed into a corner any more, but your eyes shall see your teachers: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Why all Things Work for Good The Barley Field on Fire The Unrivalled Friend God's People in the Furnace What and Whence are These? The Prophet Joel. A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! A visit to the Harvest Field Sermons of St. Bernard on the Passing of Malachy How to Keep the Heart Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “This is my body, broken for you”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said we must eat His flesh and drink His blood? | GotQuestions.org Why is the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper such a controversial issue? | GotQuestions.org Bread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bread in Times of Scarcity, Sold by Weight Bread was Baked: On Coals of Fire Bread with Water, the Food of Prisons Bread: (Eating Without Scarceness) of Plenty Bread: (Fulness of) of Abundance Bread: (Of Adversity) Heavy Affliction Bread: (Of Deceit) Unlawful Gain Bread: (Of Wickedness) Oppression Bread: (Partaking of) Communion of Saints Bread: (Seeking of Begging) Extreme Poverty Bread: (Want of) Extreme Poverty Bread: (When Broken) the Death of Christ Bread: Called the Staff of Life Bread: Crumb of, Used to Wipe the Fingers, Thrown Under the Table Bread: First Fruit of, offered to God Bread: How Prepared: Baked in Ovens Bread: How Prepared: Cracknels Bread: How Prepared: Made Into Loaves Bread: How Prepared: Mixed With Oil Bread: How Prepared: On Coals of Dung Bread: How Prepared: On Hearths Bread: Kinds of Bread of Affliction Bread: Kinds of Leavened (Made With Yeast) Bread: Kinds of Unleavened (Made Without Yeast) Bread: Made of Manna (In the Wilderness) Bread: Multitudes Miraculously Fed by Christ With Bread: Nutritious and Strengthening Bread: Offered With Sacrifices Bread: Often Given As a Present Bread: Often Put for the Whole Substance of Man Bread: Ordinary, Called Common Bread Bread: Placed on Table of Shew Bread Bread: Plenty of, Promised to the Obedient Bread: Sacred, Called Hallowed Bread Bread: Scarceness of, Sent As a Punishment Bread: Served Round After Funerals Bread: Symbolical of the Body of Christ Bread: The Principal Food Used by the Ancients Bread: Troughs Used for Kneading Bread: when Old, Dry and Mouldy Related Terms |
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