Draw Near to God in Prayer

"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 (NIV)

A certain pastor once shared that when his son was very young, he came into the living room one night and said to the family, “I’m going to bed and I’m going to pray. Does anyone need anything?” Everyone thought it was adorable, coming from such a small child. But that statement also reveals what many people think prayer is about. Some treat it as a moment to unload a long list of requests to get what they want, often in a self-centered way.

However, that’s not what Jesus taught about prayer. God already knows what we need, even before we ask. That’s why we should avoid empty repetitions and wish lists. Even so, we still need to communicate with God—not as consumers, but as His children and friends.

Through the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us that prayer is a way to build a relationship with God. When we pray, we acknowledge our Heavenly Father's greatness, express our true feelings, and show our desire to draw closer to Him—just like a good friend would. Open your heart to God and approach Him in prayer with confidence.

The Father Hears Your Prayer

• Be honest and sincere when you pray. God knows your heart—be transparent with Him.

• Be authentic! Avoid mechanical, memorized prayers. Just because you admire someone’s eloquent style doesn’t mean you have to pray like them.

• Don’t just speak empty words. Having a fake friend is sad, isn’t it? The prophet Isaiah warned about hypocrisy (Mark 7:6).

• Draw near to God with all your heart, mind, and strength.

• Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Keep your heart and mind connected to God in a spirit of prayer.

• Intercede! Pray for others, for the Church, and for the world. Your prayer matters!

A Prayer

Lord my God, thank You for teaching us how to pray in a way that pleases You.I praise You, for You deserve to be exalted and acknowledged as the holy, perfect, powerful, and faithful God that You are.Thank You for loving and accepting me, even in my imperfection and sin, 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.