The word ‘beset’ appears in the Bible and carries deep spiritual meaning. It describes something that surrounds, troubles, or entangles a person, often in the context of sin, struggles, or challenges. Understanding what ‘beset’ means in the Bible can help believers recognize their spiritual battles, overcome obstacles, and grow in faith.
Definition of Beset in the Bible
The word ‘beset’ comes from the Old English ‘besettan,’ meaning ‘to surround or hem in’. In biblical usage, it often refers to troubles, temptations, or sins that entangle a person.
In the Hebrew Old Testament, the word ‘tsarar’ (צָרַר) conveys the idea of being oppressed or distressed. In the Greek New Testament, the word ‘perikeimai’ (περίκειμαι) is used, meaning to be surrounded or weighed down.
Key Bible Verses About Being Beset
Several passages in the Bible use the term ‘beset’ to describe struggles or hardships.
- Hebrews 12:1 – ‘Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.’
- This verse warns against sins that entangle and hinder spiritual progress.
- Psalm 139:5 – ‘Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.’
- Here, God’s presence surrounds the believer, providing protection and guidance.
- Job 3:23 – ‘Why is life given to a man whose way is hid, and whom God hath hedged in?’
- Job felt beset by suffering, questioning why he was surrounded by hardship.
The Spiritual Meaning of Beset in the Bible
The word ‘beset’ often carries two main meanings in the Bible:
- Beset by Sin – The struggles believers face in resisting sin.
- Beset by Trials – The difficulties that test faith and perseverance.
1. Beset by Sin
The Bible frequently warns about sins that easily beset believers, meaning sins that entangle, slow down, or hinder spiritual growth.
Common Besetting Sins in the Bible
- Pride – Thinking too highly of oneself (Proverbs 16:18).
- Lust – Desiring things outside of God’s will (James 1:14-15).
- Greed – Loving wealth more than God (1 Timothy 6:10).
- Anger – Failing to control emotions (Ephesians 4:26-27).
- Doubt – Struggling to trust God (James 1:6-7).
The Bible encourages believers to ‘lay aside’ besetting sins (Hebrews 12:1) and seek God’s help in overcoming them.
How to Overcome Besetting Sin
- Confess and Repent (1 John 1:9) – Acknowledge sins and turn away from them.
- Seek Strength from God (Philippians 4:13) – Rely on His power to resist temptation.
- Renew the Mind (Romans 12:2) – Transform thoughts through God’s Word.
- Surround Yourself with Godly Support (Proverbs 27:17) – Fellowship with believers for encouragement.
2. Beset by Trials and Hardships
The Bible also speaks about being beset by troubles, which means being surrounded by suffering, difficulties, or opposition.
Biblical Examples of People Beset by Trials
- Job – He was beset by suffering, losing his wealth, health, and family (Job 1-2).
- David – He was beset by enemies and personal struggles (Psalm 23).
- Paul – He faced persecution, imprisonment, and hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).
Despite their trials, these individuals remained faithful, showing that God strengthens those who trust Him.
How to Overcome Trials That Beset Us
- Trust in God’s Plan (Romans 8:28) – Believe that He is working all things for good.
- Pray for Strength (Philippians 4:6-7) – Seek His peace in difficult times.
- Persevere in Faith (James 1:2-4) – Understand that trials build spiritual endurance.
- Rely on God’s Promises (Isaiah 41:10) – Remember that He never leaves His people.
God’s Protection Against Things That Beset Us
While sin and struggles can beset believers, God’s power is greater. The Bible teaches that He:
- Provides a way out of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- Surrounds believers with His presence (Psalm 34:7).
- Gives peace in the midst of trials (John 16:33).
Psalm 139:5 reminds us that God’s hand is upon us, even when we feel surrounded by difficulties.
Practical Steps to Avoid Being Beset
1. Stay in God’s Word
Reading and meditating on Scripture helps resist sin and overcome struggles (Psalm 119:11).
2. Pray Without Ceasing
Constant prayer strengthens believers against temptations and hardships (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
3. Walk in the Spirit
Living by the Holy Spirit’s guidance keeps believers from being beset by sin (Galatians 5:16).
4. Keep Fellowship with Other Believers
Encouragement from other Christians helps in spiritual battles (Hebrews 10:24-25).
5. Focus on Jesus
Keeping our eyes on Christ helps overcome anything that besets us (Hebrews 12:2).
The Bible uses the word ‘beset’ to describe the sins, struggles, and hardships that surround believers. While sin can entangle, and trials can overwhelm, God provides strength, deliverance, and protection.
By laying aside besetting sins, trusting God through trials, and relying on His Word, believers can live victoriously. God’s presence is always with His people, surrounding them with His love, grace, and power.
