Topical Encyclopedia
The term "pester" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of being troubled or harassed by persistent annoyance is present in various biblical narratives and teachings. The idea of pestering can be understood through the lens of human interactions, spiritual warfare, and the persistence of sin.
Human Interactions:In the context of human relationships, pestering can be seen in the persistent actions of individuals who cause distress or annoyance to others. The Bible provides examples where individuals are troubled by the persistent actions of others. For instance, in the account of the persistent widow in
Luke 18:1-8, Jesus tells a parable about a widow who continually approaches an unjust judge, seeking justice. Her persistence eventually leads the judge to grant her request, not out of righteousness, but to avoid being worn out by her continual coming. This parable illustrates the power of persistence in prayer, but it also reflects the human experience of being pestered into action.
Spiritual Warfare:From a spiritual perspective, pestering can be associated with the harassment believers face from spiritual forces.
Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage highlights the ongoing spiritual battle that Christians face, where they may feel pestered by temptations and spiritual attacks. The Bible encourages believers to put on the full armor of God to withstand these persistent spiritual challenges (
Ephesians 6:13-17).
Persistence of Sin:The concept of pestering can also be related to the persistence of sin in the life of a believer.
Romans 7:19 expresses the struggle with sin: "For I do not do the good I want to do. Instead, I keep on doing the evil I do not want to do." This internal battle can feel like a form of pestering, where the believer is continually annoyed by the presence of sin despite their desire to live righteously. The Bible calls for believers to rely on the Holy Spirit to overcome the persistent nature of sin and to live a life that is pleasing to God (
Galatians 5:16-18).
Biblical Wisdom:The book of Proverbs offers wisdom on dealing with pestering and annoyance.
Proverbs 27:15 states, "A constant dripping on a rainy day and a contentious woman are alike." This proverb uses the imagery of a persistent, annoying drip to describe the effect of contentious behavior, highlighting the importance of seeking peace and harmony in relationships.
In summary, while the specific term "pester" is not used in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in various forms, including human interactions, spiritual warfare, and the persistence of sin. The Bible provides guidance on how to handle such situations with wisdom, patience, and reliance on God's strength.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (
v. t.) To trouble; to disturb; to annoy; to harass with petty vexations.
2. (v. t.) To crowd together in an annoying way; to overcrowd; to infest.
Library
Account of a Conference Proposed to Me, but which I Refused.
... inevitably subject me to frequent and almost incessant applications for a friendly
interview and conversation, if any one thought it needful topester me in...
Of Porphyry's Epistle to Anebo, in which He Asks for Information...
... But as to those who hold intercourse with the gods, andpester them only for the
sake of finding a runaway slave, or acquiring property, or making a bargain of...
Against Rash and Vain Swearing.
... 'Tis an affront to good company topester it with such talk. XI. But further, upon
higher accounts this is a very uncivil and unmannerly practice....
Of Justification by Faith. Both the Name and the Reality Defined.
... But let nopester here allege that only the righteousness which men would obtrude
upon God of their own strength and free will is repudiated; since Paul...
Memoir of John Bunyan
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <....
Thesaurus
Pester (2 Occurrences)... infest. Multi-Version Concordance
Pester (2 Occurrences). Luke 11:7 "And
he from indoors shall answer, "'Do not
pester me. The door
...Indoors (6 Occurrences)
... (WEY). Luke 11:7 "And he from indoors shall answer, "'Do notpester me. The
door is now barred, and I am here in bed with my children....
Pest (1 Occurrence)
Prevent (32 Occurrences)
... NAS). Luke 18:5 yet because she annoys me I will give her justice, to prevent
her from constantly coming topester me.'" (WEY). John...
Bore (221 Occurrences)
... 5. (vt) To weary by tedious iteration or by dullness; to tire; to trouble;
to vex; to annoy; topester. 6. (vt) To befool; to trick....
Badger (9 Occurrences)
... tabernaculi. Noah Webster's Dictionary. 1. (v.) Topester, bother. 2. (n.) A
carnivorous quadruped of the genus Meles or of an allied genus....
Barred (5 Occurrences)
... Barred (5 Occurrences). Luke 11:7 "And he from indoors shall answer, "'Do notpester
me. The door is now barred, and I am here in bed with my children....
Constantly (47 Occurrences)
... (WEY). Luke 18:5 yet because she annoys me I will give her justice, to prevent
her from constantly coming topester me.'" (WEY). John...
Annoys (1 Occurrence)
... Annoys (1 Occurrence). Luke 18:5 yet because she annoys me I will give her justice,
to prevent her from constantly coming topester me.'" (WEY DBY)....
Pestilence (57 Occurrences)
Resources
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