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[expand title=”Devotion Text”]Matthew 6:5-6

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.

As a pastor, I am often asked to pray. I must admit that my heart is not always in the right spot. Sometimes my emotions are such that I don’t want to pray out loud. Sometimes I have prayed only because I feel that I am expected to. Sometimes, I admit, I have been more conscious about impressing people than communicating with God.

In Jesus’ day, there were those who used prayer as a platform. These people loved to pray in places where they could be heard and seen. Others “babbled” on and on. Jesus called these individuals “hypocrites,” a word that means, “play actor.” Words coming from their mouths originated in empty hearts.

Prayer is a genuine expression of my heart. Prayer is simply talking to God. Prayer is never meant to bring attention to me. Sometimes I need to escape to my room for a private conversation. Sometimes I am called on to lead others in prayer. But whenever and wherever I pray, it’s not about me; it’s about God. God is impressed by the sincere cries of my heart. I may be able to fool people; I can never fool God.

Talking to God

Father, please help me fully understand that prayer is simply talking to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Living Purely