“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like the 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.”
— Matthew 6:7-8
A certain pastor once shared that when his son was very young, one night he walked into the living room and said to the family, “I’m going to bed and I’m going to pray. Does anyone need anything?” Everyone thought it was a wonderful thing coming from such a small child. But that little phrase also reveals what many people think prayer is all about.
A lot of people treat prayer like a time to unload a long list of requests, as if the goal were to get everything they want — often from a selfish perspective.
But that’s not what Jesus taught about prayer. God already knows what we need even before we ask Him. That’s why we should avoid empty repetitions or turning our prayers into wishlists. Still, we need to talk to God — not as opportunists, but as His children and His friends.
Through the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus showed us that prayer is a way to build a relationship with God. When we pray, we acknowledge the greatness of our Heavenly Father, we express our true feelings, and we draw near to Him — just like a good friend does. Open your heart to God and come before Him in prayer with trust and confidence.
The Father Hears Your Prayer
Be honest and sincere when you pray. God knows your heart — be transparent with Him.
Be authentic! Don’t copy mechanical or formulaic prayers. Just because you admire the eloquent style of some ministers doesn’t mean you have to pray like they do.
Don’t speak with empty words. It’s painful to have a fake friend, isn’t it? The prophet Isaiah warned about the danger of hypocrisy (Mark 7:6).
Draw near to God with all your heart, with your mind, and with all your strength.
Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Keep your heart and mind connected to God in a spirit of continual prayer.
Be an intercessor! Pray for the needs of others, for the Church, and for the world. Your prayer matters — it has great power!
A Prayer to Pray:
Lord my God, thank You for teaching us to pray in a way that pleases You. I praise You, because You are worthy to be exalted and acknowledged as the Holy, perfect, powerful, and faithful God that You are. Thank You for loving and accepting me, even though I’m imperfect and a sinner, just as I am. Help me draw closer to You and to have a relationship with You as my Father and true Friend. Teach me to live a life of constant prayer, always trusting in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.