Words from the Rock
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?
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.
Matthew 6:5–6 Message
Once again, Jesus is telling us to keep it down and keep it real. He’s teaching us how to come before God, and he wants us to do it in an appropriate and genuine way. That means without drama. Jesus is well aware that some “religious” types like to make a big deal of praying to God. They act like they’re starring in The Ten Commandments with a packed theater of starstruck fans. They speak loudly and dramatically and put on quite a show. But Jesus says not to.
Instead Jesus gives us a simple plan. He says to find a quiet and private place—a secluded spot where no one is watching. Like a closet. Or maybe your bedroom if you don’t share it. Or maybe outside beneath a big old tree. Then you focus on God. Without fanfare or fancy words, you simply be yourself and come before God with all the honesty you can muster.
All he wants is to be with you and to have a vital, loving relationship with you. He wants you to converse with him openly, to tell him about your innermost secrets and desires and fears. He wants you to ask him for whatever you need. He wants you to pray for others in your life. And he wants you to be thankful. The best way to communicate with God is to keep it sincere, simple, and straightforward. And if anyone tells you otherwise, you’d better not fall for it.
My Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for showing me how to come to you. It’s a relief to know that I don’t need fancy words or dramatic gestures to get your attention. Help me to pray to you as often as possible—and help me to keep it real!
Amen.
Final Word
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT
Stone for the Journey
I will look for private places and quiet opportunities to spend time with God.