What does supplication in the Bible mean? Supplication, in the context of the Bible, refers to the act of earnestly asking God for something, often with a humble and sincere heart. It is a form of prayer that involves a deep desire for divine intervention or assistance. Throughout the scriptures, we find numerous examples of individuals turning to God in supplication, seeking His guidance, forgiveness, and provision.
The word “supplication” is derived from the Latin term “supplicare,” which means “to entreat” or “to beg.” In the Bible, it is often used to describe the humble and persistent requests made by believers to God. Supplication is characterized by a spirit of faith, hope, and trust in God’s ability to fulfill the requests of those who call upon Him.
One of the most poignant examples of supplication in the Bible is found in the book of Psalms. Psalm 62:8 states, “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” This verse highlights the importance of turning to God in times of need, pouring out our hearts to Him with sincerity and humility.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ often demonstrated the power of supplication. In the Garden of Gethsemane, just before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed to God in a state of deep distress, asking for the cup of suffering to be taken from Him (Matthew 26:39). This act of supplication shows the depth of Jesus’ faith and His willingness to submit to the Father’s will, even in the face of unimaginable suffering.
Supplication in the Bible also encompasses the act of confessing sins and seeking forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and repentance in the process of seeking God’s forgiveness through supplication.
In addition to seeking divine intervention and forgiveness, supplication can also involve asking for wisdom, guidance, and strength. James 1:5 encourages believers to “ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” This verse highlights the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, what does supplication in the Bible mean? It means turning to God with a humble and sincere heart, seeking His intervention, forgiveness, wisdom, and guidance. Supplication is a powerful tool that allows believers to develop a deeper relationship with God and experience His abundant grace. As we turn to Him in times of need, we can trust that He will hear our prayers and respond according to His perfect will.
