HOST: Michael Whitworth
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
Prayer—a special time of communion between Creator and creation, Father and child, God and worshipper. Prayer is a time of communication, praise, and relationship. It is a time to express to God our thanksgiving and love and to lay our troubles, cares, and petitions at His feet. It is a time to be strengthened, uplifted, and encouraged. Most of all, prayer is a time to draw near to God, to be reminded of His greatness and His love, and to be comforted by the closeness of God’s heart to our own. Prayer is special and sacred. What prayer is not is a time to flaunt our religion and spirituality. It is not a time to seek praise and accolades from men. It is not a time to fill the air with words that have no meaning. Jesus says that, before we utter the first word of prayer, God knows—He knows our needs and concerns; He knows our hearts and motives. Prayer is one of our greatest blessings and a privilege that should never be taken for granted or abused. So pray—pray sincerely, pray humbly, and pray with love and thanksgiving in your heart!
Why is it important that we pray if God already knows our needs?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!
