Matthew 6:5-15

The action of praying Matthew 6:5-15 : Prayer is to be a simple petition from a child (Christian) to his Father (God). We are not to pray to be "seen of men" but to be "heard of God." Prayer involves a solitary place and a simple petition. Prayer recognizes both God's fatherhood and our need for forgiveness.

The prayers of the Pharisees was nothing more than show-off. They loved to pray "standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men." Their reward is that they will be seen of men and they already have that reward. Our prayers should be private, from the heart and with deep devotion. Such prayers will be rewarded openly by God, the Father.

Simple, short prayers to God have great power. Do not just talk on and on to be heard of men. Some think that God loves long prayers when He really loves earnest prayers. Our prayer should be an uncomplicated prayer directed to our Father in heaven. Prayer should be addressed with honor and respect for the name of God. Prayers should include, (1) entreaty for the kingdom or church, (2) a request for daily food, (3) an appeal for forgiveness from wrongs, and (4) a petition for help in dealing with temptation and in forgiving others. If we forgive others for the wrongs they do to us, God will forgive us likewise. If we do not forgive others, God will not us of our sins. Pray! Pray often! Pray from a sincere heart!