Definition: Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, [even] them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Isaiah 41:12. It’s packed with meaning and speaks to the nature of God’s relationship with us. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is about God’s unwavering presence and protection, even when others are trying to harm us. It suggests that God will always be there for us, regardless of what challenges or opposition we face. Let's unpack it word by word: “Thou shalt seek them…” : This means you must actively look for God. It’s not about passively hoping he’ll help; it’s about a deliberate effort to find him. “…and shalt not find them…” : This is the key part. It's saying that even though you try your best, you won't ever truly find God in the face of opposition or struggle. “[even] them that contended with thee” : This is where it gets powerful. “Contended with thee” means that others have been trying to fight against you – maybe they’ve been challenging your beliefs, opposing your goals, or even trying to harm you. “they that war against thee shall be as nothing…” : This is a very strong image. "War against thee" means actively fighting against you. "As nothing..." means being utterly insignificant – like a speck of dust in the grand scheme of things. Putting it all together: The verse essentially says: “God will always be there for you, even when others are trying to stop you. He’ll never be defeated by those who oppose you.” The Overall Message: This is a message of hope and protection. It’s reassuring that God isn't just concerned with our success; He’s committed to defending us against evil and opposition. Why is this verse important? It speaks to the core of faith – the belief that God is always present, even in times of difficulty. It's a reminder that we don’t have to face challenges alone and that God will ultimately prevail. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (Are you struggling with a specific situation, or just curious about its meaning?)