Private Prayer – The Prayer Closet

Do we take pride in public prayer or do we prefer private prayer? Stephanie explores what the Lord has to say on the subject of private prayer versus public prayer.

The Lord And Prayer

Recently we discussed what is known as the Lord’s Prayer. Today, let’s focus on the verses proceeding this portion of Matthew 6:5-8 (ESV),

“And 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. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, 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. And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”

I once asked my Sunday school class if they thought God was more impressed with my prayers because I could use bigger words and could talk for a long time. (Hey, no comments from those of you who know me personally.)

Prayer Is For God, Not To Impress Others

I know many people who are unwilling to pray aloud even in a small group. They may stumble over their words or may feel others—even God—are judging them for their insecurities and lack of eloquence.

I came to the realization a long time ago that the One who is the Word and spoke everything into existence will never be impressed with my words.

Whether we’re praying on our own or with a group of fellow believers, it is our heart that matters. Do our prayers reflect confidence in the Lord? Are they biblically sound? Do we approach the Creator of the universe with both humility and confidence? After all, we must not be confident in ourselves but in Him.

And when we do pray with others, do we do it in such a way as to impress listeners? Do we go on and on? Do we, deep down, seek their affirmation and approval?

Private Prayer vs Public Prayers

There were those in Bible times who liked to pray long, dramatic prayers in public. They did so to be seen by others and to impress them with their eloquence and command of the language. Others may have been impressed, but God wasn’t. In fact, we read in Matthew 6 that God used them as an example for others—a bad example.

The Lord would much rather we came to Him one-on-one—acknowledging His greatness and asking for His will to be done, asking Him to meet our daily needs and forgive us as we forgive others, as the passage goes on to say.

Do we, as parents, take the time to pray on our own and as a couple? It is likely that if we don’t start here, we won’t get into the regular habit of studying God’s Word and praying together with our family. And it is also unlikely our children will learn to go to God in private prayer—and, as Christian parents, we don’t even want to consider that possibility.

The Habit Of Private Prayer & The Prayer Closet

So, how can we develop the habit of coming into God’s presence?

I find prayer journaling helps me stay focused. Otherwise, I become distracted by numerous other thoughts chasing one another around in my mind.

Many people, myself included, like to go for prayer walks. The exercise and fresh air clear our minds and we can pray for many things, including those who come to mind while walking. We can thank Him for our senses: the ability to walk, hear, see, think, etc. We can pray for those who live in the homes we pass, those who work in the businesses we pass, and those who worship in the churches we pass. Of course, we can talk to Him about the people and circumstances that weigh on our minds as well. He invites us in 1 Peter 5:6-8 to cast all our anxieties on Him.

There are those who have taken the Lord literally and have set aside a special place in their home that serves as a prayer closet. I actually considered doing so in a medium-sized closet we have on the main level of our home. Another possibility would be to purchase one of the sheds people set up in their backyards and designate it as a place for Bible study and prayer.

Family Prayer

I admit studying God’s Word and praying together as a couple has been hit and miss with Dave and me. I so admire couples who set aside a specific time to do so and stick with it. If, however, you’re like me, don’t despair. My mom always liked to say of doing the right thing that it was never too late. If your spouse is a believer and you haven’t yet set up a regular time to seek the Lord together, why not start today?

And as I’ve mentioned many times, establishing a regular time for family devotions is so important. It is a wonderful place for your children to hear you pray aloud about what’s on your heart. It’s also a wonderful time to teach them that God invites them to pray about what is on their heart and mind as well. Remind them that it isn’t about long prayers and big words. It’s about accepting an invitation from their heavenly Father, who is waiting for them—and us—with open arms.

Where do you pray? We would love to hear from you. Comment below or contact us at HopeStreamRadio.