Raised Hands and Bent Knees – Beloved Women – July 1, 2020
READ: “Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees.” (Isaiah 35:3 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: Do our knees and hands reveal the attitude of our hearts? Fifteen years ago at the Basilica of the Holy Stairs in Rome, I joined a crowd of believers to climb 28 wood covered stairs. I labored in heartfelt prayer as I journeyed to the top on my hands and knees. All around me lips moved passionately but soundlessly much like Hannah in the temple (I Samuel 1:10).
Isaiah’s words are part of a blessing that was promised after a judgment that was prophesied. God exhorts the hearts of the faithful to alter the present condition of their hands and knees. Our hands are made for work but they are more powerful when raised in praise. Our knees are made to help us move but can also bend humbly for the purpose of prayer.
Raised hands and bent knees build a strong and firm foundation on which to hope in Him. Gratitude for His sovereignty brings our hearts joy as we wait for the fulfillment of His promises. We don’t have to climb stairs on our hands and knees to honor Christ, instead, we can use our daily lives to glorify God with each step we take towards Him.
PRAY: Most gracious and almighty God, I raise my hands to praise You without fear or shame. I bow before You in prayer with a grateful heart. I take joy in Your promises and I wait on Your perfect timing. Thank you for strengthening my hands and making my knees firm as I seek Your will and way each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
REFLECT: Think about the condition of your hands and knees. What do you need to change?
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Alida Sharp at www.alidasharp.com.
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© 2020 by Alida Sharp. All rights reserved.
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