Seeking the ......

 

 ...... Father - Matthew 6:5-6

 

 Pray with Simplicity

"And when you come before God, don't turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?

 "Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.

 

 

Thoughts on the Scriptures

 

In almost every place you go and visit with Christians, there is a deep, underlying conviction: Our walk with the Lord, our life of discipleship, our power over sin, and our love for God would all be greatly enhanced with more time in prayer. Without realizing it, a culture obsessed with privacy finds its most intimate and private gift, prayer, lived out in public more than in private. 

Prayer is about developing a relationship and dependency upon God as Father, not about being seen. Prayer is about seeking God, His will, and His grace, not about gaining a reputation or a set of admirers. Jesus is reminding us that God has sent us an invitation to visit with Him in prayer. 

To settle down some where that we can push aside the business of the world and quietly welcome God`s presence. Spending quality time with our Father. To give up that for the approval of the crowd is not only shameful, Jesus says it's condemning. 

Today`s Prayer

Father, I want to know you and experience your attending presence. Forgive me for the times I have prayed in ways that drew attention to me, or to my "piety," instead of focusing on my relationship with you. Time in your presence is such a gift! Thank you. I find it unfathomable that you, the King of Ages and Creator of the World, long for me to come into your presence. Thank you for hearing me. Thank you for giving me such an awesome gift. Thank you for your Spirit who intercedes for me when I pray. Thank you that I can pray with confidence knowing that I will be heard because of the mighty name of Jesus, through whom I pray. Amen.