Raising hands during praise and worship

At my first ever session of the Life in the Spirit Seminar in mid 2009, I'd felt extremely uncomfortable that the people there were raising their hands while they sang during Praise and Worship. I'd also sort of squirmed whenever they broke out in tongues. My arms were crossed firmly across my chest and I thought it was unnecessary whatsoever to speak or pray in tongues or whatever it was that 'those people' were doing.

Fast forward to 2012. It's been what? Barely 3 and a half years. Today, my husband says he can tell that I am so moved by the Spirit sometimes during Praise and Worship. Yes, it's true. During Praise and Worship sessions, when I am moved by the Spirit, my only focus is to glorify God. If you don't want to raise your arms, then don't but most of the time, I will. Are you staring at me, wondering if I'm really immersed in worshipping God or if I am showing off? Do I look like I am making a fool of myself? For God, I think making a fool of myself would be worth it. Whatever you wish to think of me, then. I am not concerned. I used to wonder those questions myself too, so you are not alone. I am only concerned that my God knows me and my heart. Sometimes, it's because when I raise my hands, I am opening myself more and more to a connection with God. Other times, it's to show Him how much I respect and love Him.

Let me say here and now that I don't do this during Mass itself. There must still be reverance to how Mass is carried out. No compromise.

Though Mike and I went through the same LISS in 2009, he and I are two very different people who have responded in different ways. We have both been touched by the Holy Spirit. Yes but differently. As a wife, I wish we could be on the same wavelength but I've come to accept that it's alright really, we're two separate individuals who have become one in marriage but we will still react in different ways even in the same situation.

Mike is more reserved when it comes to expressing himself during Praise and Worship. He does raise his hands or arms albeit rarely. However, you really should hear him sing hymns or recite prayers during Sunday Mass! His voice thunders above all the other pews around us! He is not shy, that I can tell you. However, this bravado dissipates as soon as he leaves church and he turns into a reserved mouse again. Hee hee. Only God will know his heart. Am sure there are people sitting around us who wonder why this guy dares to sing or pray so loud. He is willing to make a fool of himself for God and that is great!

No one should judge AT ALL another person's way of journeying with God and if all of the above mentioned is not your cup of tea (and I must admit, it will never be to everyone's liking) and you still have a good personal relationship with God, by all means, carry on doing it your way. But my advice to you is, to find a way to be touched by the Holy Spirit because when you do and you finally feel you're not afraid to show those around you that you love God, you will finally feel free. I cannot explain to you what or how that feels. If and when you feel it one day, you will understand what I mean.