Definition of Prevail
The word ‘prevail’ is sometimes used in the Bible as a translation of several different Hebrew and Greek words, meaning to be physically victorious, to be more powerful, to be superior in strength, to be loud, or to be superior in terms of influence.
The Hebrew word for ‘prevail’ is ‘chazak’ which is often used for military victory. ‘Chazak’ means to defeat an enemy or to overcome a challenge by virtue of superior strength.
The Greek word for ‘prevail’ is ‘ischuros,’ meaning to have great power or to gain the upper hand. This word appears in the New Testament, referring to Christ’s power and strength in the healing miracles he performed.
Meaning in The Bible
In the Bible, ‘prevail’ usually refers to spiritual or moral power and strength. For example, in Isaiah 11:1-4 it talks about a shoot that comes out of Jesse as a symbol for the Messiah. This shoot is described as being strong and with ‘the spirit of the Lord [that] shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.’ This passage is a reference to the divine power of the Lord that will prevail and be victorious through the Messiah.
In Genesis 32, in the story of Jacob wrestling with the ‘angel of God,’ the angel says to him, ‘you have not yet been able to prevail against me, so let’s make a deal.’ Here, ‘prevail’ refers to a spiritual battle being fought which signals the need for man to look to God and to His guidance to be victorious.
Symbolic Use of Prevail
In the Bible, ‘prevail’ can also be used figuratively to demonstrate the power of prayer. In James 5:16, it says ‘The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.’ In this context, ‘power’ is figurative for the presence of God intervening to help and to accomplish His will. It suggests that the prayers of a righteous person will prevail in the eyes of the Lord.
The book of Job also uses ‘prevail’ in a figurative sense. Job 23:13 says: ‘He is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does.’ Here ‘prevail’ refers to God’s absolute power over all that He creates.
Prevalence in Modern Usage
Today, ‘prevail’ is used more in a figurative sense than a literal one. It often describes a situation in which someone has the power or authority to affect the outcome of something. For example, a parent might ‘prevail’ upon their children to do their homework. In this case, ‘prevail’ refers to the power of the parent’s influence, rather than an actual physical victory.
‘Prevail’ is also often used in political contexts, to describe a particular ideology or governance that ‘prevails’ over another. It is a metaphor for the power of a perspective or belief system to remain dominant.
Prevailing in History
In history, ‘prevail’ has often been used to describe a powerful ideology or institution that overcomes other such entities. The phrase ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’ is one example. This phrase is a metaphor for the power of words and ideas to overcome violence and physical force.
More recently, the concept of ‘prevail’ has been used in the fight for civil rights and social justice. People use the power of their words and actions to ‘prevail’ over oppressive ideals and ideologies. This has ultimately led to more equality and justice for oppressed people.
Why is Prevail Important in the Bible?
The concept of ‘prevail’ is an important part of the Bible because it is a reminder of the power of God and of His faithfulness. It is a reminder that ultimately only God’s will can prevail in the face of all obstacles. As such, believers are called to have faith and trust in God to ‘prevail’ over all odds.
The ‘prevail’ concept is also an important reminder that God seeks justice and righteousness. Historically, He has used His power and strength to ‘prevail’ over the forces of evil and injustice.
The Bible is full of passages where God’s power and strength will ‘prevail.’ In Job 9:4, it says that ‘He is wise in heart and mightier than all.’ In 1 John 4:4 it says that ‘Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.’ Both of these passages remind us that though the world may seem chaotic and out of control, God is ultimately in control and his power and strength will ‘prevail’ in the end.
Connection to Modern World
The concept of ‘prevail’ is as relevant in our world today as it ever has been. In many parts of the world, individuals and communities are facing oppressive systems of governance and ideologies. The truth is that God is still in control and only his power and strength can ‘prevail.’ God calls us to have faith in Him and to trust in His strength and power.
In addition to the spiritual side of ‘prevailing,’ ‘prevailing’ is also an important concept in a practical sense. We can ‘prevail’ by working diligently and persevering despite the odds. We should be ‘prevailing’ in our daily lives by fighting for justice, advocating for the oppressed, and working towards a better future.
We must also strive to not let oppressive forces ‘prevail.’ This means that we must not give in to evil and injustice and must fight for what is good and true.
Faith and Beliefs
The concept of ‘prevail’ is an important reminder of the power of faith and of our beliefs. It reminds us that with faith and strength from the Lord, we can ‘prevail’ over anything. It is a reminder that with the power of God, anything is possible.
The Bible is full of examples of individuals who trusted in the Lord to ‘prevail.’ One of those examples is David in the Old Testament. Despite overwhelming odds, David defeated the giant Goliath with nothing more than faith and a few stones. The story of David and Goliath is an important reminder that victory comes through strength and faith in God.
The concept of ‘prevail’ also reminds us that victory doesn’t always mean immediate results. It may take time and effort, but if we have faith and trust in the Lord, our work and effort will ultimately ‘prevail’ in the end.
Finding Knowledge Through Other Means
The Bible can also be seen as a source of knowledge for those seeking guidance and wisdom. In Proverbs 1:7, it says ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.’This passage speaks to the idea that knowledge and understanding come from trust and faith in God. This is why it is necessary to ‘prevail’ in studying His Word and in learning from the examples He has set forth.
We can also gain knowledge and understanding from other sources. It might be through conversations with others, or study and exploration of historical accounts. Whatever the source, it is important to be sure that our understanding is rooted in truth and in faith in the Lord.
Ultimately, the concept of ‘prevail’ reminds us that faith in God is essential to gaining understanding and knowledge. We can ‘prevail’ in our studies and in our lives with the power of faith and trust in God.
Influence of Prevail
The concept of ‘prevail’ is an important part of the Bible, and it remains as relevant today as it ever has been. The idea that faith and strength in God can ‘prevail’ over any odds is a powerful reminder of the power of God and His divine will. This concept should inspire us to have faith and to trust in Him.
The concept of ‘prevail’ teaches us the importance of perseverance and hard work. It reminds us that with faith and trust in the Lord, anything is possible. It should also remind us to not give in to evil and injustice and to strive for what is good and true.
Finally, the concept of ‘prevail’ should remind us to be diligent in seeking knowledge and understanding, and to find our guidance and wisdom from the Lord. If we trust in Him and ‘prevail’ in our studies, we can gain knowledge and insight that will ultimately lead to truth and joy.
