Title: Wrath and Doubt!

"I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."— 1 Timothy 2:8  

Devotion: The Apostle Paul exhorted Timothy, the presiding bishop, to encourage his congregation to pray everywhere. In other words, there is no geographical limitation to prayer. Some Christians were neglecting prayer at home, while others excused themselves from church prayer meetings. As a young pastor, Timothy had to identify such groups and inspire them to be steadfast in prayer.  

  Paul also pointed out the hindrances to effective prayer: wrath and doubt. He instructed believers to lift up holy hands, meaning they should trust that their sins have been forgiven and approach God with purity of heart. Anger toward one another and doubt in their hearts were obstacles to receiving answers to their prayers.  

  The Bible consistently warns against wrath and doubt. James 1:6 reminds us, "But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." Similarly, Ephesians 4:31 urges, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice."

  Christians today must learn to walk in the righteousness of Christ and be fervent in prayer. They should also practice forgiveness to overcome anger and trust God’s Word when they pray. As Philippians 4:6-7 encourages, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

  Dear beloved, what did you learn from this article? Share the word and encourage others to pray with faith and a pure heart.