Topical Encyclopedia Prayer under affliction for deliverance is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the human experience of suffering and the reliance on God for relief and salvation. This practice is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where individuals and communities turn to God in times of distress, seeking His intervention and deliverance.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, prayer during affliction is often portrayed through the experiences of the patriarchs, prophets, and the nation of Israel. The Psalms, in particular, are rich with prayers for deliverance. David, a central figure in the Psalms, frequently cries out to God in times of personal and national crisis. For instance, in Psalm 34:17, it is written, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles" . This verse encapsulates the belief that God is attentive to the cries of the afflicted and is capable of delivering them from their hardships. The Book of Job also provides a profound exploration of prayer under affliction. Job, a man described as blameless and upright, endures immense suffering and loss. Throughout his trials, Job maintains a dialogue with God, expressing his anguish and seeking understanding and deliverance. Job 42:10 records the turning point: "After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his prosperity and doubled his former possessions" . This highlights the power of prayer not only for personal deliverance but also for the restoration of relationships and blessings. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the theme of prayer under affliction is further developed through the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself prayed fervently in the Garden of Gethsemane, facing the impending suffering of the crucifixion. In Matthew 26:39, He prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" . This prayer reflects submission to God's will, even in the face of severe affliction, and serves as a model for believers. The Apostle Paul also addresses prayer in times of suffering. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul recounts the Lord's response to his plea for relief from a "thorn in the flesh": "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness'" . This passage emphasizes the sufficiency of God's grace and the strength found in reliance on Him during affliction. Theological Implications Prayer under affliction for deliverance is not merely a request for relief but an expression of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. It acknowledges human limitations and the need for divine intervention. The act of praying during affliction is a demonstration of dependence on God, recognizing that He is the ultimate source of comfort and deliverance. Throughout Scripture, the consistent message is that God hears the prayers of the afflicted and responds according to His perfect will. This assurance encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing that He is compassionate and attentive to their needs. As stated in Philippians 4:6-7, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" . Practical Application For believers today, prayer under affliction remains a vital practice. It is an opportunity to draw near to God, seek His guidance, and experience His peace amidst trials. The biblical examples of prayer during affliction serve as encouragement to remain steadfast in faith, trusting in God's deliverance and provision. Whether facing personal struggles, health issues, or broader societal challenges, believers are invited to bring their concerns to God, assured of His love and faithfulness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 25:17,22The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring you me out of my distresses. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 39:10 Isaiah 64:9-12 Jeremiah 17:14 Library The Christian Struggling under Great and Heavy Affliction. The Psalms of David The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts An Index to Find a Psalm Suited to Particular Subjects or ... And Bring us not into Temptation but Deliver us from Evil A Stanza of Deliverance Concerted Prayer Evening Prayer for a Family. The North African Church under the Vandals. Praying Saints of the Old Testaments (Continued) Resources Why did God punish Pharaoh for Abram's lie (Genesis 12:17)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Joseph? | GotQuestions.org Who was Naomi in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Affliction: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Consolation Under Affliction by Ministers of the Gospel Consolation Under Affliction in Prospect of Death Consolation Under Affliction is a Cause of Praise Consolation Under Affliction is Abundant Consolation Under Affliction is Everlasting Consolation Under Affliction is Sought in Vain from the World Consolation Under Affliction is Strong Consolation Under Affliction: Christ is the Author and Giver of Consolation Under Affliction: God is the Author and Giver of Consolation Under Affliction: Pray For Consolation Under Affliction: Promised Consolation Under Affliction: Saints should Administer to Each Other Consolation Under Affliction: The Holy Spirit is the Author and Giver of Consolation Under Affliction: Through the Holy Scriptures Consolation Under Affliction: To the Persecuted Consolation Under Affliction: To the Poor Consolation Under Affliction: To the Sick Consolation Under Affliction: To the Tempted Consolation Under Affliction: To the Troubled in Mind Consolation Under Affliction: To Those Deserted by Friends Consolation Under Affliction: To Those Who Mourn for Sin Consolation Under Affliction: Under the Infirmities of Age Prayer Under Affliction for Deliverance Prayer Under Affliction for Divine Comfort Prayer Under Affliction for Divine Teaching and Direction Prayer Under Affliction for Increase of Faith Prayer Under Affliction for Mercy Prayer Under Affliction for Mitigation of Troubles Prayer Under Affliction for Pardon and Deliverance from Sin Prayer Under Affliction for Protection and Preservation from Enemies Prayer Under Affliction for Restoration to Joy Prayer Under Affliction for the Presence and Support of God Prayer Under Affliction: Exhortation To Prayer Under Affliction: That God Would Consider Our Trouble Prayer Under Affliction: That the Holy Spirit May not be Withdrawn Prayer Under Affliction: That we May be Quickened Prayer Under Affliction: That we May be Taught the Uncertainty of Life Prayer Under Affliction: That we May be Turned to God Prayer Under Affliction: That we May Know the Causes of Our Trouble Related Terms |