1 Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
Prayer is an important subject that has unfortunately been tainted by men’s traditions. Some teach that in order to truly pray, you must bow your head and close your eyes. Others have added that you must also kneel in order to pray properly. The problem with both of these practices is that the Bible does not demand either. In fact, in Bible times, prayer was often made by the lifting up of one’s hands (Psalm 141:2). In other Bible passages, we see that believers might both kneel and lift up their hands (1 Kings 8:54). The Bible also teaches that the bowing of the head was an act of worship (Genesis 24:26). What does all of this mean? The most important aspect of prayer is not the position of the body but the condition of the heart.
- (For children):God deserves our full attention when we pray. As children, it might be best for us to close our eyes to avoid being distracted by looking around. Another good habit is to avoid having any objects in your hands with which to play. Folding our hands will keep us from touching another child in a group setting when someone is leading in prayer. However, it is very important to realize that the most important thing is to talk to God.
- (For everyone):What dangers exist by putting the emphasis of prayer upon the bodily positions implemented? Is it more important to pray with a humble heart or in a humble position?
- Though a bodily position of humility is not necessary, in what ways could it be helpful in prayer? How could closing your eyes and bowing your head be helpful as you pray?
- Ask God to help you approach Him with a humble heart.
- Ask the Lord to teach you to pray according to the scriptures.
Quotes from the next volume
(VOLUME 3, WEEK 33)
Subject: Rebellion (con’t)
Man’s opinion of sin and God’s opinion of the same sin are as different as heaven and earth.
Rebellion is a willing and conscious decision to refuse the instruction of another.