There is a custom in certain sects of Judaism to portray the power and magnitude of God. They hold out the little finger as they pray, signifying the idea that there is more than enough power in God’s little finger to answer any prayer. It’s a picture from the text and we find it in the account of Exodus.
Ancient Pharaohs are depicted showing their might by an outstretched arm or uplifted hands. This was a symbol of their power and we see its evidence in the remnants of their art. When God rained down the plagues, Moses often “stretched out his hand” in calling them forth. The Egyptians would have understood that display of power and authority. When Pharaoh’s magicians could no longer match the miracles, they declared to Pharaoh that Moses’ signs were actually “the finger of God.” That is quite a confession. But there is more to it than just giving God the glory. They are making a contrast between a whole outstretched arm and the tip of the smallest finger. God has more power in his tiny fingertip than all of Pharaoh’s resources.
I’m glad my God is big and powerful beyond understanding. For when I’m completely undone, I can look at my littlest finger and be reminded as I pray, “God, that’s all I need. There’s more than enough in your smallest fingertip to intercede for me.”
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