Saturday 12 February 2022

Psalm 74:13-23

Background

As with yesterday's verses we have another action that we are required to do in a quiet way. Today we look at the beginning of Jesus’ instruction on prayer. As with giving to the needy, Jesus is talking about when we pray. He already expects those listening to be praying as part of their daily life. It's not something they can choose to do if they feel like it.

There are many who like to pray in public places so that everyone can see and hear what they are doing. I have sat in many a service or prayer meeting and felt the pressure to pray out loud, thinking that people would judge me if I didn’t, or so I could look good alongside others. This isn’t what prayer should be about. We can pray with others, as it is helpful and it builds us up. But it shouldn’t be done to show off our spiritual credentials to others.

The instruction Jesus gives us is twofold. When we pray we should go somewhere quiet. It should be just you and the living God in a conversation that strengthens and builds the relationship. We are also told not to use more words than necessary. It is a trap we often fall into. We feel the need to keep talking when sometimes keeping our words to a minimum and leaving space to listen, sense and know God’s presence is much more important.

To Ponder:

• Do you pray regularly? Do you find this a struggle?
•  Is your prayer focused mostly on what you have to say? Or do you give space to listen and to sense God speaking to you?