“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Matthew 6:7-8
Ever felt too embarrassed to pray out loud? You are in a group and someone else’s prayers are so eloquent that they seem to rise on angel wings to Heaven. Then it comes to you and you just squeeze the next hand to say “I pass” and take a deep gulp. Please don’t.
Yes, God knows your heart and He wants honest conversation. Just a talk, between you and Him. Nothing eloquent – no need for “Thee’s and Thou’s and King James language. Just a child and a loving Father who so desperately wants to hear your voice. The Creator of the Universe is bending an ear with a smile of anticipation. Speak, My Child. Speak.
It’s easy to be self conscious in a group, even a group of fellow believers. But the key word is self. In the Gospel of John it says that the Holy Spirit groans for us in prayer, and that Jesus, too is our Intercessor. Therefore, when we enter into prayer, we should literally lose ourselves in the conversation.
Have you considered this? He also may want to use your simple words to pierce the heart of someone else. He works that way. Do not let that opportunity pass. Let Him use you.
This passage is the prelude to the Lord’s Prayer as a model. So many commentaries and sermons have been written about it. It is such a fabulous template. If praying out loud seems uncomfortable, pray that. It’s a great place to start. So is Scripture, which is God breathed.
Question– if you feel uncomfortable praying ask yourself why? The ask the Lord to heal your anxiousness and invoke His Spirit to speak through you. Your words will rise on angel’s wings to Heaven, too. Guaranteed.
