Keep Your Prayers Simple - Daily Hope with Rick Warren - September 14, 2024
Keep Your Prayers Simple By Rick Warren
“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words . . . for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Matthew 6:7-8 (NIV)
God is much more interested in humble and authentic prayers than a long-winded sermon in prayer. Just get to the point!
Jesus had a lot to say in the Sermon on the Mount about praying simply, without trying to sound super spiritual:
"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words . . . for your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:5-8 NIV).
You don’t have to convince God of what you need. He already knows! Just come to him as simply, honestly, and humbly as you can, and talk about what you need.
Don't use prayer to show off. I’m sure you’ve seen or heard people try to impress others through their prayers. But they don’t get any extra credit for sounding impressive or stretching out a
prayer. That’s not what God wants to hear. He wants a conversation with you, not just words directed at him.
Instead, be sincere when you pray. Don't spout off clichés. Don’t add in fillers because you’re afraid your prayers are too short.
Talk to God like you would to a loved one or a good friend. As you walk out your front door in the morning, you might say, “God, it’s a nice day. Thanks for making it.” Then as you go throughout your day, you can keep that conversation open, having short conversations with God about what you’re doing, what you need help with, or what you’re grateful for.
Adding words to your prayer doesn't make it any stronger. Keep it simple, with a sincere heart and sure faith.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
Discover God’s Pathway to Healing and Wholeness!
Everyone faces challenges in life—but you don’t have to stay stuck in them!
The Life’s Healing Choices Bible study from Pastor Rick offers a powerful, biblically grounded pathway to freedom and transformation.
Rooted in the Beatitudes of Jesus, this 8-session video* and workbook study will guide you to . . .
• Break free from pain and unhealthy habits. • Find true happiness and experience spiritual growth. • Build a life of wholeness and healing in Christ.
The Life’s Healing Choices Bible study is our thanks for your gift below to help take the hope of Jesus to more people through Daily Hope—so request your copy today!
We’re grateful for your partnership!
*Video is available in DVD or streaming formats. The workbook will be mailed to you.
*The USA IRS code permits you to deduct the amount of your financial gift to Daily Hope that exceeds the fair market value of materials you received from Daily Hope.
