In the Bible, “obtain” generally refers to acquiring or receiving something through effort or God’s grace, as seen in passages like Romans 5:1-2, which emphasizes obtaining access to God’s grace through faith. It can also imply the act of securing blessings or promises from God.
Scripture
43 Then Laban answered and said to Jacob, “The daughters are my daughters, the children are my children, the flocks are my flocks, and all that you see is mine. But what can I do this day for these my daughters or for their children whom they have borne?
44 Come now, let us make a covenant, you and I. And let it be a witness between you and me.”
Biblical Definition of “Obtain
The concept of “obtain” in the Bible extends beyond mere acquisition and encapsulates a deeper spiritual significance tied to faith, grace, and divine promise. In Romans 5:1-2, the apostle Paul articulates that by faith, believers “obtain” access to God’s grace, indicating that this acquisition is a result of one’s relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. This access is not obtained through human effort alone but is a gift from God, highlighting that true spiritual fulfillment and blessings are accessible only through divine grace and faith.
Furthermore, in Hebrews 11:1, faith is described as “the assurance of things hoped for, that arise from their relationship with God.
The be revealed. Thus, obtaining takes on a dual role of requiring both a proactive stance and dependence on God’s generous promises.
Additionally, the theme can be reflected in Paul’s letters, where the apostle frequently encourages believers and obedient relationship with God.
Spiritual Acquisition
In the biblical context, “obtain” often refers to the act of acquiring spiritual gifts, blessings, or salvation. This acquisition is not merely transactional but involves a relationship with God, where faith and obedience play crucial roles. Believers are encouraged to seek and obtain wisdom, grace, and understanding, which are seen as divine gifts that enhance their spiritual journey and relationship with the Creator.
Fulfillment of Promises
Another broader meaning of “obtain” in the Bible relates to the fulfillment of God’s promises. Throughout scripture, God makes covenants with His people, and obtaining these promises often requires faith and perseverance. The act of obtaining in this sense signifies the realization of God’s faithfulness and the blessings that come from trusting in His word, highlighting the importance of hope and expectation in the believer’s life.
Access to God’s Kingdom
“Obtain” can also signify the access to God’s Kingdom and eternal life. In this context, it reflects the idea that through faith in Jesus Christ, believers can obtain a place in the Kingdom of Heaven. This access is not based to partake in the divine promise of eternal life.
How to Seek Abundance Through Faith and Wisdom
Seeking abundance through faith and wisdom is a transformative journey that invites us to deepen our relationship with God and cultivate a mindset of gratitude and generosity. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the words daily choices.
Bible References to the Definition of “Obtain”:
Deuteronomy 12:10-11: 10 But when you go over the Jordan and live in the land that the Lord your God is giving you to inherit, and when he gives you rest from all your enemies around, so that you live in safety,
11 then to the place that the Lord your God will choose, to make his name dwell there, there you shall bring all that I command you: your burnt offerings and your sacrifices, your tithes and the contribution that you present, and all your finest vow offerings that you vow to the Lord.
1 Samuel 30:24-25: 24 For who would listen to you in this matter? For as his share is who goes down into the battle, so shall his share be who stays by the baggage. They shall share alike.”
25 And from that day forward he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel to this day.
Proverbs 4:7-8: 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.
8 Prize her highly, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her.
Isaiah 53:1-2: 1 Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
2 For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him.
Matthew 7:7-8: 7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”
8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.
Luke 11:9-10: 9 And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.
John 1:12-13: 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
Acts 2:38-39: 38 And Peter said to them, “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.
39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”
Romans 5:1-2: 1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 9:24-25: 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.
25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Philippians 3:13-14: 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Hebrews 11:1-2: 1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
2 For by it the people of old received their commendation.
James 1:5: 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
1 Peter 1:3-4: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.