TOTALLY SURRENDER: The Power of Lifting Your Hands

Is your strength running out? We often view the lifting of hands as a simple act of praise, but in the Bible, it was the key to winning a war. Drawing from the story of Moses on the hill and the writings of the Apostle Paul, this blog explores why admitting our weakness is actually the first step to true power. Discover how "Total Surrender" changes your perspective on the battles you're facing today.

C. Atkinson

1/16/20242 min read

“Now then, you kings, act wisely! Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the Lord with reverent fear and rejoice with trembling... But what joy for all who take refuge in him!” — Psalms 2:10-12 (NLT)

In our moments of worship and prayer, we often see the lifting of hands. To many, it is a demonstration of joy or a desire to connect with God. However, biblically, this gesture carries a much deeper meaning: it is a sign of total surrender.

In Exodus 17, we see a powerful example of this. When the Israelites were attacked by the Amalekites, Moses stood on a hill holding the staff of God. As long as Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed; when his hands dropped, the enemy gained the advantage. When Moses grew weary, Aaron and Hur stood beside him, supporting his arms until sunset. This led Joshua to a total victory.

Strength in Admitting Weakness

Moses, a leader called by God, understood that leaning on his own wisdom would lead to death (Proverbs 14:12). By holding up his hands, he wasn't just performing a ritual; he was proclaiming his own frailty and unworthiness to win the battle without the Spirit of the Living God.

We often try to fight the battles of this world with our own flesh, but we are reminded that our true struggle is against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12). Like Paul, we must realize that nothing good lives in our sinful nature (Romans 7:18). To overcome, we must surrender our carnal will to the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings us spiritual life.

The Secret to Strength

The Apostle Paul was an expert in "Total Surrender." He famously stated:

“Therefore I am content with weaknesses, with insults, with troubles, with persecutions and difficulties for the sake of Christ, for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)

By surrendering his weaknesses, Paul allowed Christ to be glorified. He rested in the confidence that God’s plans for him were for good and not for disaster (Jeremiah 29:11).

How do we achieve this total surrender? * Daily Repentance: Choosing to change whatever is necessary to please God.

Obedience: Fearing God and keeping His commandments, which Solomon called the whole duty of man (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Refuge: Choosing to take shelter in Jesus rather than our own understanding.

Trust Without Borders

Are you facing a challenge that makes you feel like giving up? Be encouraged by the example of Moses, Aaron, and Hur. They knew that "iron sharpens iron" and that staying steadfast was the only way to victory.

The Lord desires for us to fall in love with Him daily—a relationship that grows sweeter as we yield our lives to His will. Through the study of His Word, consistent prayer, and authentic worship, we live a life of total surrender.

As we walk by faith, let us stand firm on His promises. Our surrender is trust without borders. Let down your walls and open your heart fully to Jesus today.

A Prayer of Surrender

ABBA FATHER, We thank You that in You we live, move, and have our being. You are the reason we breathe and are in our right minds today. Thank You for making a way where there seemed to be no way. We pray that Your Word would be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Keep us humble, knowing that we are the clay and You are the Potter. Mold us and make us in Your way. We totally surrender all to You, asking that You direct our paths as we lean not on our own understanding. Give us a hunger and thirst after righteousness. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.