Prayer

Based on Matthew 6:5–15 (ESV)

Prayer is not about performance. It is about presence.

In Matthew 6:5–15, Jesus gives us more than instructions; He invites us into a deeper relationship with God. He shows us that real prayer doesn’t require an audience, poetic words, or spiritual theatrics. It simply requires sincerity.

“When you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others.” (v. 5)

Jesus begins by challenging the motive behind our prayers. Are we praying to connect with God, or to impress people? He reminds us that God isn’t moved by volume or vocabulary. He is moved by hearts turned toward Him.

Instead, Jesus says:

“Go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (v. 6)

There is something sacred about the quiet moments. The prayers no one else hears. The whispered thank-yous, the honest cries, the simple conversations with a holy God who already knows what you need (v. 8), but loves it when you come to Him anyway.

Then Jesus gives us a model. Not a script to recite mindlessly, but a guide to shape the posture of our hearts:

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name...”

This prayer reminds us that God is both near and holy, that His kingdom is worth praying for, and that our daily needs—physical, emotional, and spiritual—matter to Him.

“Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

Prayer is not just about asking for things. It is also about aligning our hearts with His. It is about trust, dependence, and humility—recognizing our need for grace and extending that same grace to others.

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

Because we are in a battle every day. And we do not fight it alone.

Prayer is a lifeline. It keeps us connected to the source of life, wisdom, peace, and strength. When we stop treating it like a religious duty and start seeing it as an ongoing relationship, it changes everything.

So today, find a quiet place. Shut the door. Say what’s on your heart. And remember, your Father sees you, hears you, and loves to meet with you in the stillness.

Reflection Question:
What might God be inviting you to say or stop saying in your prayer life this week?