Keep Your Prayers Simple

“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words . . . for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”

Matthew 6:7-8 (NIV)

Longer is not stronger when it comes to prayer.

God is much more interested in humble and authentic prayers than a long-winded sermon in prayer. Just get to the point!

Jesus had a lot to say in the Sermon on the Mount about praying simply, without trying to sound super spiritual:

“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words . . . for your Father knows what you need before you ask him” (Matthew 6:5-8 NIV).

You don’t have to convince God of what you need. He already knows! Just come to him as simply, honestly, and humbly as you can, and talk about what you need. 

Don’t use prayer to show off. I’m sure you’ve seen or heard people try to impress others through their prayers. But they don’t get any extra credit for sounding impressive or stretching out a

prayer. That’s not what God wants to hear. He wants a conversation with you, not just words directed at him.

Instead, be sincere when you pray. Don’t spout off clichés. Don’t add in fillers because you’re afraid your prayers are too short. 

Talk to God like you would to a loved one or a good friend. As you walk out your front door in the morning, you might say, “God, it’s a nice day. Thanks for making it.” Then as you go throughout your day, you can keep that conversation open, having short conversations with God about what you’re doing, what you need help with, or what you’re grateful for.

Adding words to your prayer doesn’t make it any stronger. Keep it simple, with a sincere heart and sure faith.

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Talk It Over

Does knowing God wants you to use simple, sincere words when you pray make it easier for you to pray in front of other people? Why or why not?
Why do you think God prefers humble, authentic prayers to eloquent, long-winded prayers?
What is occupying your mind most today? Have you talked to God about it?

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