The postures of prayer

The word posture means ‘a position or attitude of the limbs or body’. There are various stances taken regarding prayer, some people believing that one position is more appropriate before God than another. However, the reality is that it is not the external that counts, but rather the heart of the person that prays.

The Bible gives several examples of postures taken whilst people pray.

Kneeling

This is seen as the traditional way to pray by many people, and some churches even have pads to kneel on. When the Minister says ‘let us pray’ that is a signal for people to kneel. Kneeling is seen as an act of submission to God ie bowing the knee to Christ.
‘When Solomon had finished all these prayers and supplications to the Lord, he rose from before the altar of the Lord, where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out towards heaven.’ 1 Kings 8:54

Standing

In many churches, the Minister will ask someone to pray in the meeting and that person will stand. Standing is seen as a mark of respect before God, in the same way that a man will sometimes stand if a lady comes into the room, although that is not seen so much now in our society - but it was once common.
‘Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands towards heaven and said…’ 1 Kings 8:22-23

Bowing

When a person meets a member of the royal family, they will bow (or curtsy as in the case of a woman). Bowing is acknowledging royalty, and as Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of Lords, then it is fitting that we should sometimes approach him in this way.
‘Then the man bowed down and worshipped the Lord.’ Genesis 24:26

Face to the floor

This is the ultimate in submission, and is a sign of absolute acknowledgement of God. The floor is considered a dirty place, and so to make contact between a person’s face and the floor is showing the level of humility that they are prepared to go to.
‘Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.’ Matthew 26:39

Stewart Bloor

www.sicm.org