Inner Prayer, Outer Decorum

Neville's Inner Vision

Let us see the text as a map of inner states. 'I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting' translates to the declaration that consciousness should be lifted beyond contention and fear, that fresh, clean energy (holy hands) be exercised in every situation. The phrase 'without wrath and doubting' is the clearing of inner obstruction—the belief in limitation and the flicker of judgment that unsettles the soul. 'In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety' becomes an inner discipline: attire of the mind that is modest and sober, not by external deco but by inner courtesy, humility, and self-control. The admonition 'not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array' points to a loosened attachment to appearances; the focus remains on the inner quality rather than outward display. 'But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works' completes the code: true adornment is action—the works that proceed from a God-conscious state. Thus the verse invites you to align your entire life with godliness, expressed through prayerful consciousness and compassionate deeds, regardless of outward role or form.