‘Valid’ Prayers

“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 others.

Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”

Matthew 6:5

 

 

 

What does a “valid” prayer look like?

What does it sound like?

How long does a prayer need to be to be accepted by God?

If we pray in a way that doesn’t match our usual habits, traditions and routines does that make the prayer invalid?

We can become so locked into a certain method of prayer that our spontaneous and life giving relationship with the Lord is cut off in favor of ritual and routine.

But of course life is not always, neat, orderly and routine.

Sometimes our prayer may reflect that.

Could a heart crying out to Him in a moment be as effective as a lengthy and eloquent prayer that is ‘pretty’ to the ears?

Without a doubt!

There’s an old saying that goes something like this:

“We don’t stand on formality here!”

Please understand what I am saying.

We can try to be so “formal”, so “prim and proper” in our prayers that we are paralyzed.

When that happens you can be sure the enemy has you right where he wants you.

If we are to “…pray without ceasing.” then those are prayers prayed in the car, at work, on vacation, etc…

In other words, praying at all times and in all places.

They may be short, frequent and to the point but they needn’t wait until my “routine” time.