The Life and Ministry of Jesus
“And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 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; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:5–6
It is not wrong to pray in public in the assembly, or even when blessing food (John 6:11) or seeking God’s help. But it is wrong to pray in public if we are not in the habit of praying in private.
Observers may think that we are practicing prayer when we are not, and this is hypocrisy. The word translated closet means “a private chamber.” It could refer to the store-chamber in a house. Our Lord prayed privately; so did Elisha (2 Kings 4:32ff) and Daniel (Dan. 6:10ff). 1
Personal Encouragement
Prayer is your lifeline to God. It is also your lifeline to doing His will on earth. Your life should move forward in prayer. Praying always for all things. Prayer is the cure for complaining. Prayer is the prescription for overcoming worry and fear. Prayer is communication with The One who wants His best for your life.
Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. Mark 1:35
Not much will happen, if prayer is not happening before other things happen.
A Prayer
Lord, may I come every morning to fellowship with You, before I fellowship with others.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
