What does the Bible say about instability?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible warns that instability of heart leads to unfaithfulness, while God calls his people to steadfast trust and obedient faith. Reuben, though privileged as firstborn, lost preeminence because he was “unstable as water” in Genesis 49:3-4. Pharaoh repeatedly hardened his heart after promising obedience, as Exodus 8:15, 8:32, 9:34, and 10:16-20 show, revealing the deceitfulness of sin and the need for God’s renewing grace. Israel likewise quickly turned from covenant promises to fear and idolatry in Exodus 14:5, 19:8, and 32:8-10. Yet the Lord remains faithful, patiently exposing fickleness and calling his people to rely on him alone.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- General scriptures concerning Genesis 49:3; Genesis 49:4; Exodus 8:15; Exodus 8:32; Exodus 9:34; Exodus 10:8-11; Exodus 10:16-20; Exodus 14:5; Exodus 32:8-10; Exodus 19:8; Exodus 24:3; Exodus 24:7
- See BACKSLIDING
- See HYPOCRISY
- See INDECISION
- INSTANCES OF
- Reuben Genesis 49:4
- Saul, in his feelings toward David 1 Samuel 18:19
- David, in yielding to lust 2 Samuel 11:2-9
- Solomon, in yielding to his idolatrous wives 1 Kings 11:1-8
- Ephraim and Judah Hosea 6:4
- Lot’s wife Luke 17:32
- Some disciples of Jesus John 6:66
- Mark Acts 15:38
See also
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