✍️ Ayodeji Oludapo
🗓️ May 31, 2025
And so it was, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands became [a]heavy; so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun — Exodus 17:11-12 (ESV)
In the thick of battle, it wasn't the strength of Israel's army that determined victory — it was the obedience and posture of Moses before God. As long as his hands were lifted, a symbol of intercession and reliance on God, the people triumphed. But Moses, though a mighty leader, was still a man — and men grow weary.
In his fatigue, Aaron and Hur stepped in. They didn’t take over the battle, nor did they try to become the leader. They simply stood beside him and held up his hands.
This image is rich with spiritual meaning. How many times have you found yourself weary in your journey? Maybe you're praying for a breakthrough, leading a ministry, supporting a family, or battling personal struggles. Like Moses, you may have started strong, full of faith, but eventually, your hands began to tremble.
God, in His wisdom and grace, sends "hand lifters" — people who may not be in the spotlight but play a crucial role in the battle's outcome. Friends who pray when you can’t find the words. Mentors who speak life when you feel empty. Community members who simply show up.
Even Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, asked his disciples to watch and pray with Him in His hour of sorrow. He understood the human need for support, even though His divine mission was His alone.
Who has been a "lifter of hands" in your life? Have you thanked them lately?
Are you being that person for someone else?
Don’t despise the role of support — Aaron and Hur didn’t fight with swords, but their presence won a war.
Look around. Some of your friends, leaders, and loved ones may be growing tired. They don’t need perfect solutions — they just need your presence, your prayers, and maybe your hands holding theirs up.
Victory is often a team effort. God has designed us to live interdependently — not in isolation. In seasons of strength, we are lifters. In seasons of weakness, we are lifted. And through it all, God Himself is the ultimate lifter of our heads (Psalm 3:3).
So today, whether you’re Moses, Aaron, Hur, or Joshua — know that you have a part in someone’s breakthrough. Play it with humility, faithfulness, and love.
Lord, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life — those who have lifted my hands when I was too weak to go on. Forgive me when I’ve tried to do everything alone. Teach me to be aware of the battles others are facing and show me how I can be a support. Let me never underestimate the power of simple faithfulness. And when I grow weary, remind me that You are the ultimate lifter of my head. In Jesus’ name, Amen.