Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; This exhortation calls for renewed spiritual effort despite weariness. 'Wherefore' (dio, διό) connects to previous teaching on discipline's purpose—understanding that hardship serves beneficial ends should motivate renewed vigor. 'Lift up the hands which hang down' quotes Isaiah 35:3 (LXX), depicting exhaustion and discouragement. Drooping hands and feeble knees picture someone ready to quit, too weary to continue.
The command isn't merely about individual perseverance but community responsibility. The context (verse 13) extends concern to others ('lame'). Believers are called to strengthen not only their own resolve but also to encourage weary fellow Christians. This mutual edification is essential in faith community—we help one another persevere when individual strength fails. The body of Christ functions best when strong members support weak ones through trials.
This illustrates that Christian life isn't passive resignation but active engagement. While we trust God's sovereign work, we're called to vigorous cooperation—striving, running, fighting, enduring. The grace that saves also empowers effort. Reformed theology rejects both presumption (waiting for God to act while we remain passive) and Pelagianism (thinking our effort merits salvation). Instead, we 'work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure' (Philippians 2:12-13).
Historical Context
Isaiah 35:3-4 originally encouraged Israelite exiles, promising God's deliverance and restoration. Hebrews applies this prophetic encouragement to New Covenant believers facing persecution and weariness. The image of strengthening weak hands and knees resonated in ancient world where physical labor dominated daily life—weak hands and knees meant inability to work or travel. Spiritually, the metaphor pictures believers who've grown discouraged under prolonged trial, ready to abandon faith. The command to 'lift up' calls for renewed courage and strength, both individually and through community support. Early Christian communities needed this mutual encouragement to endure persecution.
Questions for Reflection
What specific spiritual practices or disciplines could 'lift up' your drooping hands and strengthen your feeble knees?
Who in your faith community needs you to strengthen their hands and knees through encouragement and support?
How does understanding discipline's purpose motivate you to renewed spiritual vigor rather than passive resignation?
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Analysis & Commentary
Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; This exhortation calls for renewed spiritual effort despite weariness. 'Wherefore' (dio, διό) connects to previous teaching on discipline's purpose—understanding that hardship serves beneficial ends should motivate renewed vigor. 'Lift up the hands which hang down' quotes Isaiah 35:3 (LXX), depicting exhaustion and discouragement. Drooping hands and feeble knees picture someone ready to quit, too weary to continue.
The command isn't merely about individual perseverance but community responsibility. The context (verse 13) extends concern to others ('lame'). Believers are called to strengthen not only their own resolve but also to encourage weary fellow Christians. This mutual edification is essential in faith community—we help one another persevere when individual strength fails. The body of Christ functions best when strong members support weak ones through trials.
This illustrates that Christian life isn't passive resignation but active engagement. While we trust God's sovereign work, we're called to vigorous cooperation—striving, running, fighting, enduring. The grace that saves also empowers effort. Reformed theology rejects both presumption (waiting for God to act while we remain passive) and Pelagianism (thinking our effort merits salvation). Instead, we 'work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure' (Philippians 2:12-13).