(SORRY, NO VIDEO TODAY!)
1 Timothy 2:8 I desire therefore that in every place men should pray, without anger or quarreling or resentment or doubt [in their minds], lifting up holy hands.
Our Scripture today tells us that our attitude when we pray is extremely important, but before we get to that, we should take notice that it says "men should pray". Now I know that this verse definitely applies to the women also, but I can't help but wonder what kind of difference would be made if men would become consistent in their prayer lives. God has called men to lead their families, but it seems more often than not that the "prayer warriors" are women. What a difference it would make if, through prayer, God transformed the men of our day into the fathers and husbands that He has called us to be in His Word. You might say that you do quite well as a dad and a husband, but if your prayer life is lacking then you are falling well short of who you could be. It's important not only that men pray, but also that their families see them pray. I often fail in this area because many times I pray in secret, but God is calling me to be more visible to my children when I pray. Also, attitudes such as anger, resentment and doubt can cloud and distract our minds, and we end up becoming frustrated or even praying in the wrong spirit altogether. I think this why this verse says to "lift up holy hands". Lifting our hands while we pray is a great way to release the pride and surrender to our heavenly Father with a grateful heart. Oh yeah, one more thing...........this verse was written to a pastor, and I don't know of any pastors that wouldn't "desire" for people to pray more, especially the men! Amen.
So very true. All of us need to pray MORE, I fail I know (I'm a single woman). But, OH, if more men in this country would get on their knees before Almighty God. God Bless you Jonathan.
ReplyDeleteDianne
Yes, Men should pray more often. Guilty of not praying enough or praying to suit my own personal needs is easier. In this 21 days I have learned discipline in my prayer life. But will it still be there after 21 days. Only if I make a commitment to continue on , knowing that more distractions will come on day 22. As to raising our hands and yielding as a sacrifice to God. My prayer is more men would do this during worship without being asked- just yield to God . As music is a very powerful prayer device according to Gods word. Remember the musicians allways went first in battle, not the soldiers. ken
ReplyDeleteI also want to continue the prayer life that we have been encouraged to have. I am excited about the reward that I will receive for diligently seeking His face! I am excited about what our children will receive that will produce Godly living. What will they become as a result of our obedience? How many people will give their life to Jesus as a result? Men have lots of reasons to pray consistently! I wondered where the lifting of hands was in the bible, and there it is! Doing so glorifies God, lifting up Jesus, which draws all men to Him! Try it and see!
ReplyDelete