PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 6:5-8
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans.” (Matthew 6:7)
Prayer is not a technique for getting God to do what we ask.
It is neither eloquence nor the abundance of words that impresses God.
And yet, you wouldn’t get that impression from Christians – or pastors – today.
Compare how simple Jesus’ prayers were, with how ‘wordy’ our prayers can be.
“The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?” (Ecclesiastes 6:11)
I lead prayer in church and sometimes find myself piling on the words – babbling.
Churchy words, extensive quotes from scripture, and run-on sentences.
The Lord does not need to be flattered or impressed or persuaded.
We don’t need to explain the whole situation, God already knows!
Sadly, I meet many people who won’t pray because they think they can’t.
What they mean is they can’t do it like they hear other Christians pray.
As a Jesus follower, I am free to speak plainly and simply to God and Jesus.
And I want to help others do this by modelling simple child-like prayer.
To pray like little children, simple and trusting, and not like those who babble.
PRAYER
Lord, the more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone? Teach me to pray like You, plainly and simply.
“for they think they will be heard because of their many words” Often too many words – I know I can get caught up in this. In visits the most important thing is being there. Sometimes the words don’t come – other times I know I talk too much. How to have balance. Yet, I find in my private conversations with God – it is better to express my thoughts -even though He knows me. If I can express my anxieties and my needs – it helps and I know God wants me to. Yet, in public spheres – it is not a show – let my words be honest and precise and not drawing attention to myself!
Jesus knows our thoughts. He knows our concerns. He knows us.
Just talk to Him like a child talking to their Father. Share your concerns.
All too often my concern is about my prayers in company and what they think about my prayers. I just need to focus on Jesus, not others.
Lord, teach me how to pray.
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
that calls me from a world of care,
and bids me at my Father’s throne
make all my wants and wishes known.
In seasons of distress and grief,
my soul has often found relief,
and oft escaped the tempter’s snare
by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!