our benefit. We constantly need reminders that our best works are filthy rags before God (Isa. 64:6). Our finest eloquence is stammering ignorance before his mind, and our longest recitations barely register in his infinity. God hears our prayers because of his mercy, not because of our mastery of them or of him. He listens to the words that are sincere and seek to honor him, not because our prayers bribe him but because he loves to honor those who depend on him.
