Topical Encyclopedia Prayer under affliction, particularly for protection and preservation from enemies, is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It reflects the believer's reliance on God's power and faithfulness in times of distress and danger. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings on how to approach God in prayer when faced with adversaries.Old Testament Examples 1. David's Prayers: King David is a prominent figure who frequently prayed for protection from his enemies. In Psalm 17:8-9 , David pleads, "Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings from the wicked who assail me, from my mortal enemies who surround me." David's prayers often express a deep trust in God's ability to deliver and protect. 2. Hezekiah's Prayer: When King Hezekiah faced the threat of the Assyrian army, he turned to God in prayer. In 2 Kings 19:15-19, Hezekiah prayed earnestly for deliverance, acknowledging God's sovereignty and asking for protection. His prayer was answered, and God delivered Judah from the Assyrians. 3. The Psalms: The Book of Psalms is rich with prayers for protection. Psalm 91 is a powerful declaration of God's protection, stating in verses 1-2 , "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" New Testament Teachings 1. Jesus' Instructions: Jesus taught His disciples to pray for deliverance from evil. In the Lord's Prayer, He instructed them to pray, "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13). This prayer highlights the need for divine protection from spiritual and physical adversaries. 2. Paul's Encouragement: The Apostle Paul frequently wrote about the spiritual battle believers face and the importance of prayer. In Ephesians 6:18 , he urges believers to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." This includes seeking God's protection against spiritual forces of evil. Theological Insights 1. God as Protector: The Bible consistently portrays God as a refuge and fortress for His people. Believers are encouraged to seek His protection, trusting in His power and faithfulness. Psalm 46:1 declares, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." 2. Faith and Trust: Prayer under affliction requires faith and trust in God's promises. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that "without faith it is impossible to please God," emphasizing the importance of believing in His ability to protect and preserve. 3. Spiritual Warfare: The New Testament emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Prayer is a vital weapon in this battle, seeking God's intervention and protection. Practical Application Believers are encouraged to follow biblical examples and teachings by earnestly seeking God's protection through prayer. This involves acknowledging God's sovereignty, expressing trust in His promises, and persistently praying for deliverance from both physical and spiritual enemies. The assurance of God's presence and protection provides comfort and strength in times of affliction. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 19:19Now therefore, O LORD our God, I beseech you, save you us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you are the LORD God, even you only. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 20:12 Psalm 17:8,9 Library The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Psalms of David An Index to Find a Psalm Suited to Particular Subjects or ... Huss and Jerome. Huss and Jerome The Caroline Settlement Fire! Fire! Fire! A New Year's Benediction A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. By John Knox. Homilies on the Statues. Resources What does the Bible say about affliction? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from Psalm 119? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that hope deferred makes the heart sick (Proverbs 13:12)? | 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 |