Jun 13 – When You Pray!

“But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place.” (Matthew 6:6)

Chapters 5, 6, and 7 of the Gospel according to Matthew are known as the Sermon on the Mount. In this sermon, Lord Jesus taught about victorious Christian living under 23 different themes. Among them, the teachings on fasting and prayer are especially important. The “model prayer” taught by the Lord is also found here.

In the days of Jesus, there were many hypocrites. They gave importance to vain repetitions and lengthy speeches. Empty prayers, performed merely to appear godly before people, were widespread. The Jewish people did not truly know how to worship in spirit and truth, nor how to pray properly.

Jesus made them understand that: “For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:8)

Yet it remains our duty to pray. It is also our responsibility to pray persistently without losing heart. Such prayer must rise sincerely from the depths of our hearts toward God.

Prayer is a mighty pillar in the Christian life. Only when this pillar stands firm will spiritual life remain stable. Moreover, prayer is a great privilege given to us by the Lord. During prayer, we lay all our burdens, tears, worries, and heartaches at the feet of the Lord. We express our love and gratitude to Him with thanksgiving.

Prayer establishes direct fellowship with our Heavenly Father. Yes, prayer time is truly a moment when heaven and earth are brought together.

The Apostle Paul said: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6,7)

When we present our prayer requests to the Father with thanksgiving, the Holy Spirit who dwells within us will lead us into all truth (John 16:13).

Prayer time is the moment when the Lord comforts and strengthens us. His loving hand wipes away our tears, establishes us, and gives us strength. His presence encourages and helps us. In spiritual life, protection, power, and fellowship all come through prayer.

That is why King David said: “I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1,2)

Verse for further meditation: “And your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” (Matthew 6:6)