And when you are praying, do not babble on and on like the pagans; for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Matthew 6:7-8, TLV
Unfortunately, we’ve all been to prayer meetings where there was a lot of “babbling.” Eloquent wording, but babbling nonetheless. Some of us are internal processors, others of us external processors.
This is just my thought, but because external processors need to process out loud, it can sound like babbling.
So, let’s address the context of this passage, as well as this other phenomenon, because the LORD has thoughts on that.
Today’s passage is within the context of “grand standing” a prayer. To be blunt, showing off. Praying is a personal conversation with the Creator of the Universe. There is an attitude of respect, but also great love and trust.
The verses following today’s passage (vss. 9-13), Yeshua taught us how to pray — a template of sorts. It begins with worshiping our Father, then acknowledging His sovereignty and praying in agreement with His will. From there we address our repentance of sins and our responsibility to forgive others. Then …
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one. (vs. 13)
Jesus covers pretty much every aspect of temptation to sin within us and around us. Even addressing the evil around us.
Not much babbling here, is there? When we follow this prayerful roadmap, we stay focused. We’re less likely to get lost in the grand standing.
Those external processors
What about those external processors? Those folks who have to talk out every thought to find that kernel of understanding? Go into our quiet place, our “prayer closet” for that. There we have the freedom to talk it out intimately with the LORD for as long as it takes.
The last thing we want is to cause others to wander in their thoughts rather than walk with us in agreement while praying.
Many times, these Daily Word posts are my way of processing — to find a kernel or two of understanding. There’s quite a bit of editing I need to do.
This is such a private, intimate time with my Heavenly Father. I hope sharing with you is not seen as grand standing. No guarantees that there might be a bit of babbling from time to time — please forgive me when that happens.
More than anything, I hope you takeaway from today’s passage and devotion, that even though our Father is the Creator of the Universe — the King of the Universe — He still just wants us to talk with Him. He loves spending time with us. Isn’t that amazing?
