Topical Encyclopedia Divine InterventionDivine intervention refers to the direct and active involvement of God in the affairs of the world and the lives of individuals. Throughout the Bible, divine intervention is depicted as a manifestation of God's power, wisdom, and love, often occurring in response to human need, prayer, or to fulfill His divine purposes. One of the most notable examples of divine intervention is the parting of the Red Sea, where God delivered the Israelites from the pursuing Egyptian army. In Exodus 14:21-22 , it is written, "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and on their left." Another significant instance is the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, which was foretold by the prophets and fulfilled through divine intervention. In Matthew 1:20-21 , an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a Son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins." Divine intervention is also evident in the lives of individuals, such as Daniel in the lion's den. In Daniel 6:22 , Daniel testifies, "My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions, so that they have not harmed me, because I was found innocent before Him; nor have I done any harm to you, O king." Promise The concept of promise in the Bible is closely linked to God's covenants and assurances given to His people. These promises are expressions of God's faithfulness and commitment to His creation, often serving as a source of hope and encouragement. One of the earliest promises is found in Genesis 9:11 , where God makes a covenant with Noah after the flood: "I establish My covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth." This promise is symbolized by the rainbow, serving as a perpetual reminder of God's mercy. The promise to Abraham is another foundational element of biblical narrative. In Genesis 12:2-3 , God promises Abraham, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." This promise is fulfilled through the lineage of Abraham, culminating in the coming of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, the promise of the Holy Spirit is a significant assurance given to believers. In Acts 2:38-39 , Peter declares, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise belongs to you and your children and to all who are far off—to all whom the Lord our God will call." The promises of God are not only historical but also eschatological, pointing to the future hope of eternal life. In John 14:2-3 , Jesus assures His disciples, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am." Divine intervention and promise are integral to understanding the nature of God as revealed in the Bible. They demonstrate His sovereignty, faithfulness, and love, providing believers with assurance and hope throughout the ages. |