Topical Encyclopedia
The term "attent" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of being attentive is a significant theme throughout Scripture. Being attentive involves paying close attention, being watchful, and listening carefully, especially in relation to God's word and His commands.
Biblical Context1.
Attentiveness to God's Word: The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of being attentive to God's instructions. In
Proverbs 4:20-21 , it is written, "My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart." This passage underscores the necessity of focusing on divine wisdom and internalizing it.
2.
Attentiveness in Prayer: Attentiveness is also crucial in the context of prayer. In
1 Peter 4:7 , believers are exhorted to be "clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray." This implies a state of alertness and readiness to communicate with God, ensuring that one's prayers are sincere and focused.
3.
Attentiveness to God's Voice: The Bible records numerous instances where attentiveness to God's voice is vital. In
1 Samuel 3:10 , young Samuel responds to God's call by saying, "Speak, for Your servant is listening." This illustrates the importance of being ready and willing to hear God's voice and respond accordingly.
4.
Attentiveness in Worship: Worship requires a heart and mind that are fully engaged. In
Psalm 95:6-7 , the psalmist invites worshippers to bow down and kneel before the Lord, acknowledging Him as their Maker and Shepherd. This act of worship demands attentiveness to God's majesty and authority.
5.
Attentiveness to Others: The Bible also encourages attentiveness to the needs and concerns of others.
Philippians 2:4 advises, "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This reflects a Christ-like attitude of selflessness and care for one's neighbor.
Theological ImplicationsAttentiveness is a reflection of one's spiritual posture before God. It signifies humility, readiness to learn, and a desire to align one's life with God's will. The attentive heart is open to correction, guidance, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. In a world filled with distractions, maintaining attentiveness to God and His purposes is a mark of true discipleship and spiritual maturity.
Practical ApplicationBelievers are encouraged to cultivate attentiveness through regular study of Scripture, dedicated prayer, and active participation in the life of the church. By doing so, they can better discern God's voice, grow in wisdom, and effectively serve others. Practicing attentiveness also involves setting aside time for reflection and meditation, allowing God's truth to permeate one's heart and mind.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (
v. t.) Attentive; heedful.
2. (n.) Attention; heed.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ATTENT; ATTENTIVEa-tent' (archaic;2 Chronicles 6:40); a-tent'-iv: Expresses the direction of thought and interest toward some one point. Same Hebrew word as "attend," and is used particularly in prayers (Psalm 130:2Nehemiah 1:6). "Very attentive" (Luke 19:48) is a paraphrase for what is literally rendered in the Revised Version (British and American), "the people all hung upon him, listening" exekremeto.
Strong's Hebrew
7183. qashshab -- attentive... 7182, 7183. qashshab. 7183a . attentive. Transliteration: qashshab Phonetic
Spelling: (kash-shawb') Short Definition:
attent. attentive
...Library
The Temple and Its Dedication
... "Now, my God, let, I beseech Thee, Thine eyes be open, and let Thine ears
beattent unto the prayer that is made in this place....
David's Choristers
... They 'stood,' a melodious multitude, girt andattent on their song, or waiting their
turn to fill the else silent air with the high praises of Jehovah, and...
Ember Days and Ordination 451. God of the Prophets! Bless the...
... Anoint them prophets! Make their earsattent. To thy divinest speech; their
hearts awake. To human need; their lips make eloquent....
The Blood
... having gathered from great distances to hear him, he rose at the close of the usual
service, and, as all eyes were fixed and every yearattent, he spoke for...
A Preacher from the Dead
... And how would you listen? And how solemnly would you gaze at that unearthly
spectre! And how would your ears beattent to his every word!...
The Laodicean State of Christendom.
... that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches"-imitating
that they contain a special message heard only by those who areattent to the...
The Manner in which Christ Served.
... served. Everattent in being about His Father's business: no rest, no leisure,
at times so thronged that He went without His meals....
Thesaurus
Attent (2 Occurrences)... 1. (vt) Attentive; heedful. 2. (n.) Attention; heed. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia.
ATTENT; ATTENTIVE.
... Multi-Version Concordance
Attent (2 Occurrences).
...Attentive (18 Occurrences)
... or attention. 2. (a.) Heedful of the comfort of others; courteous. Int. Standard
Bible Encyclopedia.ATTENT; ATTENTIVE. a-tent' (archaic...
Attends (1 Occurrence)
Attention (236 Occurrences)
Beseech (85 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 6:40 Now, my God, let, I beseech thee, thine eyes be open, and let
thine ears beattent unto the prayer that is made in this place....
Resources
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