“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)
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 people do that. But that doesn’t mean they get any credit for that kind of prayer. God doesn't want to hear that kind of prayer.
Instead, be sincere. 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. Say, "God, nice day. Thanks for making this one. Talk to you in another three seconds." Prayer is an ongoing conversation. You can just pick up where you left off in another minute and keep the conversation open.
Adding words to your prayer doesn't make it any stronger. Keep it simple, with a sincere heart and sure faith.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
Your Gift Brings Hope to the World
Build your life on the unshakable truth of God's Word.
As Pastor Rick often says . . . if you want to change the way you act, you start by changing the way you think.
That’s why it’s so important to trade faulty worldviews for God’s truth. You have to replace those old thought patterns—the lies you’ve believed—with his Word.
We want to help you do that by sending you Pastor Rick Warren’s book "God’s Power to Change Your Life" as thanks for your generous gift today.
In this resource, you’ll learn how to apply God’s Word to ten key areas of your life—because while the world is full of advice on what to change, it can’t give you the power to actually do it. Only God can!
So request your copy when you give today—and thank you for helping share the hope of Jesus with people around the world.
*The USA IRS code permits you to deduct the amount of your financial gift to Daily Hope that exceeds the fair market value of materials you received from Daily Hope.
