When and How to Pray

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, January 28, 2025
I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
1 Timothy 2:8 (NKJV)

The guiding text for today provides a compelling illustration of how and when to pray. Paul’s teaching focuses on the state of our hearts as we approach God, not merely on outward gestures like raising our hands in prayer. Attitude is critical in prayer.

Pray Everywhere, Lifting Holy Hands

God wants us to pray everywhere, whether at home, in church, or at work. Prayer ought to be done at all times and in all places. In prayer, raising one’s hands is a sign of purity, reverence, and surrender. “Holy hands” suggests that our deeds and lives need to be a reflection of purity, not only in external manifestations but also from a God-purified heart.

Ask God to disclose any unresolved conflict, anger, or sin that you haven’t confessed before you approach Him in prayer. His forgiveness and grace will validate your prayers. If you have a disagreement with someone, seek reconciliation. It could be as simple as committing them to God in prayer or expressing your apologies with sincerity.

When and How to Prayer

Find times today to stop and pray, whether you raise your hands in a literal or symbolic gesture, ensure you are submitting to God’s will. Make an effort to live in harmony and peace with other people while living in harmony with God’s will, an attitude symbolized by holy hearts and hands. You can pray anywhere but remember your heart must be attuned to God’s.

Prayer
Almighty God, in a gesture of worship and surrender, I raise my holy hands in front of You. Clear my heart and rid me of everything that gets in the way of my prayers.