Q
In Exodus 17:8-14 why did Moses choose to stand at the top of the hill holding the staff of God in his hand? Why did Aaron and Hur stand on each side of Moses, holding up his hands?
A
This passage is a model of intercessory prayer. When Moses held his hands up toward heaven, he was praying and the Israelites were winning. When he got tired and let his arms down, it meant he had stopped praying. Then the Israelites began losing. When Aaron and Hur came to hold his arms up, it means they were helping by agreeing with him in prayer. The Israelites began winning again and the Amalekites were defeated. Their participation demonstrates the additional power of group intercession.