Disciples Connect with God
Through Prayers Not Measured by Wordiness
Matthew 6:7-8
When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
~ Jesus
Last week we looked at being wary of a prayer life that seeks to impress men. This week the thought is to avoid a prayer life that tries to impress God – with extensive religious language or length in prayer.
Once again let’s avoid a common misapplication of what Jesus is saying. When Jesus calls out wordiness – or babbling – he does not denounce all “wordy” or long-winded prayers. Jesus was known to pray all night occasionally. Don’t mistake short for better, though people prefer this case!
It’s not the length of the prayer or the amount or size of the words, but the content and the heart behind it. Empty and vain repetition is to be avoided. In fact, words themselves aren’t even necessary as we will see tomorrow.
Prayer Prompt
Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for the reminder that the hearing of my prayer is a matter of a right heart and not a matter of right words. In fact, sometimes I can’t seem to find words. But I know that You understand and for that I am grateful. I pray in Your name. Amen.
Immersed in the Word of God
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 139:1-6
- You have searched me, LORD,
and you know me. - You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar. - You discern my going out
and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways. - Before a word is on my tongue
you, LORD, know it completely. - You hem me in behind and before,
and you lay your hand upon me. - Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Micro-Meditation Action
Read the verses of the Psalm two times. Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.
Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.
Micro-Meditation Pondering Point
The Lord God knows you better than you know yourself. Who better to shape you and to teach you about the depths of your personhood in relation to Him?