Pray with a Private Mindset

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[5] “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. [6] 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 (NKJV)

Matthew 6:5-6 is one of the scriptures that used to confuse me several times when studying it as a young Christian. In fact, I was so confused that I thought public prayer was ungodly, even in church. So I used to despise people who prayed publicly up until God used one of those people to reach the gospel to me. Today, I love to pray no matter where I am, but not with the view of letting others see me. That would be of no use. Instead, I follow what Jesus said – to pray with a private mindset, even when done in a public space.

Back in Jesus’ days on Earth, the Pharisees were classified as “self-righteous” people who usually did godly things to prove to others they were “holy.” So they were putting up sombre faces when fasting, as well as praying in public. And Jesus was against that behaviour since it was hypocritical. Jesus didn’t come to abolish any godly exercise that draws us near to the Father. However, there are various methods His Word seeks to change in each believer’s mind. One of them is prayer.

Just because Jesus told the Israelites that when they pray, they should shut their doors and do it doesn’t mean prayers done in the room are the only form of prayers He wants us to emulate. No! He wants us to pray with a private mindset – that is, connecting to our Maker and caring less about what people say about our deeds. If Jesus said this, then it is possible.

You don’t have to make a public show of yourself when you’re being intimate with the Father. No! Instead, make up your mind to draw closer to God anytime you lift up your voice to pray. That will benefit you the most.

You’re a blessing.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to draw nearer to You in prayer no matter where I find myself. In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen!

Devotional Code: KGD – 2025 – 029


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Devotional - Pray with a Private Mindset
Devotional – Pray with a Private Mindset
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