Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:A call for divine intervention refers to the act of seeking God's direct involvement in human affairs, particularly during times of distress, danger, or uncertainty. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where individuals and communities often turn to God for help, guidance, and deliverance. Such calls are typically expressed through prayer, supplication, and lamentation, reflecting a profound reliance on God's power and mercy. Biblical Examples: 1. Moses and the Israelites: In the Book of Exodus, the Israelites frequently call upon God for intervention during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. One notable instance is when they are trapped between Pharaoh's advancing army and the Red Sea. Moses reassures the people, saying, "Do not be afraid; stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today" (Exodus 14:13). God responds by parting the sea, allowing the Israelites to escape. 2. King Jehoshaphat: In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat faces a formidable alliance of enemy armies. In response, he calls for a national fast and prays for divine intervention. He declares, "Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this vast army that comes against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12). God answers by causing confusion among the enemy forces, leading to their defeat. 3. The Psalms: The Book of Psalms is replete with calls for divine intervention. Psalm 18, attributed to David, is a song of deliverance where he proclaims, "In my distress I called upon the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry for His help reached His ears" (Psalm 18:6). This psalm reflects the personal and communal reliance on God during times of trouble. 4. The Early Church: In the New Testament, the early church frequently seeks divine intervention. In Acts 12, when Peter is imprisoned, the church prays earnestly for his release. "So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him" (Acts 12:5). An angel of the Lord subsequently frees Peter, demonstrating God's response to their prayers. Theological Significance: A call for divine intervention underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and active presence in the world. It reflects the understanding that human strength and wisdom are often insufficient, necessitating reliance on divine power. This theme is central to the biblical worldview, where God is seen as a refuge and strength, "an ever-present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1). Practical Application: Believers today continue to call for divine intervention in various aspects of life, from personal struggles to global crises. Such calls are expressed through prayer, worship, and communal gatherings, embodying faith in God's ability to act in transformative ways. The biblical examples serve as a source of encouragement and a model for seeking God's help in times of need. Subtopics Call: To Special Religious Duty of Abraham Call: To Special Religious Duty, Call: To Special Religious Duty: Aaron and his Sons Call: To Special Religious Duty: All Who are Called of God Call: To Special Religious Duty: Amos Call: To Special Religious Duty: Apostles Call: To Special Religious Duty: Cyrus Call: To Special Religious Duty: Gideon Call: To Special Religious Duty: Jehu Call: To Special Religious Duty: Joshua Call: To Special Religious Duty: Moses Call: To Special Religious Duty: Paul Call: To Special Religious Duty: Samuel Call: To Special Religious Duty: Solomon Call: To Special Religious Duty: The Rich Young Man The Call of God by his Ministers The Call of God is from Darkness The Call of God: Addressed to All The Call of God: Blessedness of Receiving The Call of God: Effectual to Saints The Call of God: Partakers of, Justified The Call of God: Praise God For The Call of God: Rejection by God The Call of God: Rejection of, Leads to Delusion The Call of God: Rejection of, Leads to Judicial Blindness The Call of God: Temporal Judgments The Call of God: To Man Is of Grace The Call of God: To Man Is: According to the Purpose of God The Call of God: To Man Is: Heavenly The Call of God: To Man Is: High The Call of God: To Man Is: Holy The Call of God: To Man Is: To Eternal Life The Call of God: To Man Is: To Fellowship With Christ The Call of God: To Man Is: To Glory and Virtue The Call of God: To Man Is: To Holiness The Call of God: To Man Is: To Liberty The Call of God: To Man Is: To Peace The Call of God: To Man Is: To the Eternal Glory of Christ The Call of God: Walk Worthy of The Call of God: Withdrawal of the Means of Grace Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |