Matthew 6:5-6 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 men. I tell you the truth, 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.
I am not sure how your mind's eye works, but in mine I can see these men with extravagant religious clothing, standing out on the street corner, wailing at the top of their lungs, attempting to get some attention. This picture leads me to a few questions: Why did these religious leaders pray in this manner? What do you think people thought when they walked by these *hypocrites* who purposely wanted to be seen by others. And why did Jesus call them hypocrites? Do you think he was being too harsh on these religious individuals?
Listen to the next phrase Jesus says, "I tell you the truth". When the Son of God is going to shed some truth in our life, doesn't that make your ears perk up to listen? The truth is we need to go into our room, close the door, and pray. Alone...with Him! Do you have a secret place? If not, find one and get alone with God. He is wanting to reward those who seek the unseen God in the secret. Let's make a covenanent today we will not pray like a hypocrite.
APPLICATION TO MY LIFE:
1. How should I pray?
2. Do I have a secret place? If so, where? If not, why?
3. Have you ever prayed in a way similar to those whom Jesus referred as "hypocrites"?
4. What is the result of getting alone with God in a secret place?
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