Devotion:
Read Matthew 6:5-8.
This passage precedes the model prayer we call the “Lord’s Prayer” and gives instructions on how we are to pray. In these verses, Jesus emphasizes that most of our prayer time is between us and God alone. God is not impressed with our prayer language nor the length of our prayers. Jesus makes it clear that we are never to pray in order to impress other people and even calls those who do this “hypocrites.” Hypocrites are persons who play act or pretend to be something they are not; and long, insincere prayers meant to impress those who hear us mark us as such! This teaching is not criticizing or condemning public prayer, but it reminds us that those prayers should never be prayed to impress others with anything about ourselves. It is my belief that those who pray best in public are those whose private, personal prayer lives are rich and faithful.
Jesus’ instruction to go into our room and close the door (NIV) clearly calls us to private prayer. He reminds us that we do not need to go on and on in our requests, because God already knows our hearts before we ask for what we need. And that gives us ample time to listen to God, which is perhaps the most important element of true prayer.
Personal Worship Option:
If your prayer time is sometimes squeezed into a few moments here and there during a busy day, look today for a quiet and private time. “Close the door” to others, TV, the internet, social media, or any other distractions and spend time in conversation with God. Listen more than you speak. Enjoy God’s company!
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