How do we know our prayers are accepted by God?

The text in 1 Timothy 2:8 teaches that men should pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting. The notion of 'holy hands' signifies that we can only approach God with our prayers through the righteousness of Christ. Our own hands—representing our sinful nature—are unworthy of presenting to a holy God. Thus, we must rely on Christ's work and His holiness, lifting up His hands in our prayer and worship, ensuring that our prayers are offered without fear of condemnation or worthiness of punishment.