Simple prayers
Matthew 6:6 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.
Today is a little different. I am so tired from my workload and the heat, I don’t think my brain is connected to my fingers. I sat down this morning and prayed a simple prayer; I thanked God for another day as always, I thanked him for the work and all the blessings that come with it. I thanked him for the ministry opportunities through it. I thanked him for, and asked for more physical strength to continue in it. The physical side of my job is very demanding, and I pray for strength from the One who gives it. I knew where I wanted to read God’s Word this morning, and here was what I read.
Matthew 6:5 “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 6 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. 7 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. 8 Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. 14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
I don’t know how to start my day without prayer and some time in God’s Word. It is my daily spiritual breakfast to nourish me for the day. Some days it may be a big meal; others it may be a Pop Tart. But as we know, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. When you get up early, and all the house is quiet, it is just you and God; it is your alone time with Him. He does not want anything fancy, He wants to hear what is on your heart. This is The Message’s interpretation:
Matthew 6:5 “And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat? 6 “Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace. 7 “The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. 8 Don’t fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need.
There is so much truth in that plain English of that scripture. Do you get it?
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