What does EGW write about...
Ellen Gould White über: "Posture during prayer"
Answer
Both in public and private worship it is our privilege to go down on our knees before God to present our concerns, as the example of Jesus, the apostles, and biblical figures such as Daniel shows. In everyday situations, such as at work or in crowds, we can nevertheless lift our hearts to God in silent prayer at any time without having to kneel. What is important is a natural posture that reflects the spirit of reverence and does not unduly strain physical health.
The Example of Kneeling in Prayer
Both in public and private worship it is our privilege to bend our knees before God when we bring our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “knelt down and prayed.” It is reported that His disciples also “knelt down and prayed.” Paul declared, “I bow my knees before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” To confess the sins of Israel before God, Ezra knelt. Daniel “knelt three times a day on his knees and prayed and gave thanks before his God.”
Reverence in the House of God
When the congregation is opened with prayer, every knee should bend in the presence of the Holy One and every heart should rise in silent devotion to God. The prayers of faithful worshippers will be heard, and the ministry of the Word will prove effective. The lifeless posture of worshippers in the house of God is a major reason why the ministry no longer produces good.
Prayer in Everyday Life and in Every Situation
There is no time or place where it would be inappropriate to direct a request to God. Nothing can prevent us from lifting our hearts in the spirit of earnest prayer. In a crowd on the street, in the middle of a business commitment, we can send a request up to God and plead for divine guidance, as Nehemiah did when he presented his request before King Artaxerxes.
No Waiting Period for Prayer
Wherever we are, whatever our occupation, our hearts should be lifted to God in prayer. ... We do not have to wait until we can bend our knees before we pray. ... Nehemiah sent a burst prayer up to the God of heaven before he dared to answer the king.
Natural Posture and Avoidance of Exhaustion
The posture in prayer should be completely natural. Prolonged prayer leads to fatigue and is not in harmony with the Gospel of Christ. A half hour or even a quarter hour is altogether too long. A few minutes are sufficient to bring your concern before God and tell Him what you desire.
- Kneeling in prayer
- Reverence in worship
- Silent prayer in everyday life
Original Sources (English)
Loading...
