The word that is commonly translated in English as “fervent” is an important principle in the Bible. It appears several times and offers an important lesson to believers. Fervent is defined as being intensely eager or passionate and can be related both to business, love, and religion. Fervent in the Bible comes up in multiple contexts, including prayer, faith, and redemption. This article will provide an overview of what the Bible says about being fervent and take a deeper look into how believers can best use this lesson to serve God.
The phrase “fervent in spirit” appears in the Bible numerous times, such as in Romans 12:11. This phrase is used to describe a person doing something with an intense degree of belief and passion. To be fervent in spirit is to act with complete dedication, embodying what becomes a bond of spiritual connection. According to Matthew Henry’s commentary, this phrase suggests a passionate zeal focused on the good rather than the bad. It reflects a sense of devotion and intensity for God, as fervent spirit speaks to being open and obedient to His will.
Fervent is closely linked to prayer. The Bible talks about how fervently praying and unceasingly making requests of God helps to bring faith alive. We see this in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which states, “Pray without ceasing,” and in Ephesians 6:18, which states, “Pray in the Spirit at all times with all kinds of prayers and requests.” We are also told in Philippians 4:6-7 to present our requests to God with thanksgiving and to have a peace that “surpasses all understanding.” In short, the Bible instructs us to pray with fierce belief and with complete trust that God will provide.
The Bible also talks about the importance of fervent faith and redemption. In James 5:16, it talks of “the effective, fervent prayer of the righteous.” This verse speaks to the power that prayer has when it is backed by faith and strength. We are also told that God can register everything that happens with a fervent believer and that He will answer with grace and mercy in an appropriate season. Lastly, in Luke 18:7-8, we find that blessings come to those “who persist in prayer, because he will be heard.” Further, fervent faith and redemption can be found in the Lord’s Prayer, showing that no matter what circumstance, God will deliver for those who seek Him with a fervent heart.
The Bible speaks of a number of important lessons with regard to the theme of being fervent. Fervent prayer is linked to greater faith and devotion towards God, as well as a greater potential to receive God’s gifts. Fervent prayer allows us to begin to transform our lives and make a greater impact on the world. Additionally, when praying passionately and intensely, it enables us to come closer to God through a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him. Furthermore, being fervent brings us closer and more connected to those around us and our larger faith community.
Importance of Fervent Humility
The Bible also talks about being fervent with humility. To be humble is to be honest and gracious, eliminating the need to boast or judge others. This can be seen in the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet in John 13:14. He was setting an example of how to be humble and to show God’s love by serving others through fervent humility. To be fervently humble is to stay humble and steadfast to the Lord’s teachings, holding fast to faith and courage. In Luke 18:14, Jesus states: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” This speaks to Humility being closely linked to being fervent, as it requires us to be open and willing to be guided by God’s grace.
Understanding Fervent Love
Fervent love is an important theme found in the Bible, both in terms of its capacity to show us the Lord’s love and in terms of its capacity to improve our relationships with those around us. When we are fervent in our love, it gives us the opportunity to love the unloveable — those we may disagree with, or may be in a conflict with. We can find this in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which states that love “is kind and patient, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud”. Loving others unconditionally and without judgement is meant to draw us closer to God and make us better people. Further, 1 John 4:16 speaks about how perfect love casts out all fear, which means that learning to love others fervently helps us to become brave and confident, knowing that the Lord will protect and guide us.
Biblical Examples of Fervent Believers
Finding examples of fervent believers in the Bible can help us to better understand how being fervent can help us to become closer to God. One example is King David, whose life was marked by passion and intensity as he served God with all his heart. In 2 Samuel 12:24, it states: “And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in to her and lay with her; and she bore a son and he called his name Solomon.” We can also look in the life of Joshua, whose fervor allowed him to become a brilliant leader with God’s favor. In Joshua 1:8, it states: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.” Here we can see the power of being fervent — embracing the Word of God, obeying its commands, and fulfilling its promise of spiritual success.
Living a Fervent Life
To begin living a more fervent life through prayer, it is important to not merely recite words but to consider their content and the order with which they are said. It is also important to take the time to sit in silence and be open to the Lord. Further, it is important to give thanks and offer up praise for all of the blessings in your life, no matter how small. This can be as simple as expressing gratitude for a good conversation with a friend. Lastly, it is important to pray without ceasing, not giving in to the temptation to be idle and impatient, but rather being persistent with your prayer even when it is not convenient or easy.
Putting Fervent Belief into Practice
Putting fervent belief into practice involves living in accordance with what the Bible teaches. It means staying true to the Word of God, being obedient to its commands, and trusting that God will provide. It also means following in the footsteps of the Lord and becoming a leader in the eyes of your peers and those around you. This can be accomplished through both leading by example and being engaged in intentional spiritual communities. It can also mean being a cheerleader for those around you, being generous, and looking out for the most vulnerable members of the community. Lastly, it means letting go of your earthly desires and submitting to the will of God.
Developing Spiritual Fervor
Developing spiritual fervor often involves making concrete practices and changes to our lives. We must seek out new sources of inspiration and knowledge, explore new ways of praying, and ensure that our daily habits reflect our spiritual commitment. It is important to read, reflect, and discuss scripture with others. Additionally, it is important to seek out accountability partners to help us stay on track and make ourselves accountable for our spiritual growth. Additionally, it is important to find a place where we can retreat and be still, such as a church or group, where we can be surrounded by like-minded people who can help challenge and encourage us.
Staying Fervent
Staying fervent requires a focus on self-awareness, as well as developing practices to discourage distraction. Aim to set regular times to read the Bible and pray so that it becomes a part of your daily routine. Additionally, become more intentional about looking for God’s presence in your everyday life and take the time to thank Him for all of the blessings in your life. Lastly, seek out godly mentors who can provide guidance and direction. Follow the examples of fervent believers, such as those mentioned in the Bible, and continue to challenge yourself to grow in faith and stay humble and obedient.
