FRIDAY March 13, 2020

Praying in Secret

“But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.”
Matthew 6:6-7

Jesus placed such a great importance on how His disciples should pray. He wanted them to understand the necessity and the benefits of praying in secret. The closet was a great place to pray because no one else could see or hear them! They would draw no attention to themselves. The closet was a perfect place to pray because there were no distractions as they came before God’s throne room of grace. A believer could have a time of close communion between them and the Lord.

Jesus taught those listening to Him that when they prayed, they did not have to use vain repetitions. God may hear loud, long, repetitive prayers, but they are of no consequence––empty prayers. God answers sincere prayers spoken from the hearts of humble men and women who seek him secretly.

When Christians pray together, they are entering into the presence of God. It is a relationship between them and their heavenly Father. In group prayer, every person waits to pray, and each person’s prayer is different. Everyone’s heart motives need to be right. Prayer is not so a person can impress others; it is a time of communion with God.

Honestly, people can tell when someone is praying out loud a personal vendetta to convict someone else in the group. These people are not addressing God, but an individual in the group. Some Christians, instead of praying, begin to preach a message; others are longwinded in their prayers, and this does not allow others in the group to pray.

Be sure to examine your heart before praying to God. Ask yourself, Why am I coming before the throne of grace? Be good prayer warriors––close to the heart of God.

It is necessary to draw near unto God, but it is not required of you to prolong your speech till everyone is longing to hear the word ‘Amen’.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!