+DEV+ Reaching for Perfection

Date: March 18, 2010 10:41 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Reaching for Perfection

Reaching for Perfection

“To you I call, O Lord my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me...Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place.” (Psalm 28: 1-2)
Scripture Focus: Psalm 95:1-7

Why do we pray with bowed heads, closed eyes, and folded hands? Is it from tradition or from habit? Do these actions show the respect we feel and help us focus on God?

King Solomon knelt and raised his hands in prayer (2 Chronicles 6:13). People used this posture to bring a request before him as king. Kneeling showed his honor for the King of Kings.

In John 17:1, Jesus stood and looked toward heaven, as He proclaimed God’s glory.

The tax collector stood and beat his breast as he prayed (Luke 18:10-13). He felt unworthy even to look toward heaven, and he showed grief for his sins as his cultural tradition dictated.

In Matthew 26:38-39, Jesus fell face down when He prayed. People used this posture to beg a great favor from a king. It showed submission.

In 2 Samuel 7:18, David sat down to pray. He was meditating and reasoning before the Lord.

God heard all of these prayers. The actions of each person’s body reflected his heart’s cry.

Insight: Does our physical posture when we pray reflect our inner submission and respect toward our heavenly Father?


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