It Starts Small

⁷ For this I was appointed a herald, an apostle (I am telling the truth; I am not lying), and a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.⁸ Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument. 

1 Timothy 2:7-8

For this I was appointed

There is no greater purpose! The most profound thing anyone can do in this life is to share the exhilarating good news. It must be shared with someone who truly believes. It leaves an indelible mark for all of eternity! Here is a powerful question to ponder: What difference will this make a hundred years from now? Sharing the gospel and inspiring others to do the same creates change that lasts forever. Our degrees, money, and earthly accomplishments may wane, but souls endure! Impacting souls is a purpose worth living for, a mission that fuels our very existence!

In verse 8 we see several instructions:

• Pray. Once again, we are reminded that prayer is the very bedrock of our spiritual journey! To be truly successful for Christ, one must begin with this unwavering foundation of prayer. No amount of preaching or effort can bring about true transformation. God must be at the center of it all.
• Lifting up holy hands. Raising our hands in worship is a powerful and visible manifestation. It shows the deep respect and profound praise we hold in our hearts for God! While it’s possible to lift hands without true worship, it’s also possible to worship fervently without lifting hands. Nevertheless, this act can be an incredibly meaningful expression of our love for God. For those of us raised in traditions where this practice might be discouraged, it’s time to embrace this act! And let’s not forget—closing our eyes in prayer might not be mentioned in Scripture. Nonetheless, it is a beautiful practice. Dressing in our best attire on Sundays is seen as an honor to God in many denominations. Here lies a resounding truth: worship should spill over into our physical expressions! Don’t let inhibitions or the opinions of others hold you back; if God’s Spirit stirs within you, respond with abandon!
• Holy hands. This speaks to a profound truth: when we come to worship God, we must be consecrated to Him! Holding onto sin in our hearts while singing praises will never bring joy to our Creator. Let us come before Him with pure hearts, ready to worship in authenticity and truth!

Before worship, take a moment to deeply reflect on your life. Confess fervently any sins that weigh on your heart. In doing so, you open yourself to receive His boundless forgiveness. You can approach your King with hands made clean. Your heart will radiate purity. If you have truly been consecrated, your words will resonate like a beautiful melody, bringing joy to His ears.

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Cross-References

• Psalm 63:4
• Lamentations 3:41
• Romans 6:13
• Joshua 3:5
• Psalm 66:18
• Proverbs 28:9

Discussion Questions

• Why do you think Paul wants to emphasize that he is telling the truth here?
• Is this a surprising statement in some way?
• What have you been appointed to do? List out all of the things God has appointed you to do.
• Paul was very clear about his gifting and calling. Do you know your gifting? Do you know your calling? What might the purpose of “lifting up holy hands be?”
• How can you make your hands holy?
• Why the reminder “without wrath and dissension?”

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