Repetitious Prayers

According to many in our prayer community, one of the fears that can paralyze our prayers the most seems to be based on the New King James translation of Matthew 6:7, which refers to “vain repetition.” It says, “When you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.”

This is referring to the way people from pagan religions would repeat formulas or certain words to seek the attention of their false gods. They thought if they said the right words in the right order enough times, the gods would see their devotion and have to grant their request.

Some people have taken Jesus’ admonition to mean that praying for something over and over again isn’t how to pray. But does “vain repetition” truly sound like what we’re doing when we continue each week to pray for our pastors to be protected from the enemy’s schemes or for our families to experience unity?

Jesus put this idea of persistent prayer into action as he awaited the cross the night before in the Garden of Gethsemane. “So, leaving [the disciples] again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again” (Matthew 26:44, ESV). Repetition in prayer reveals our faith in the Lord’s ability to work even when we don’t see an immediate result.

I don’t think we have even an inkling how powerful it is to keep coming back to God about the same concerns. What might look to us like a lack of faith on our part (badgering a God who’s obviously forgotten us) is actually strengthening our surrender and faith.

As you feel discouraged to keep praying for the same request over and over again, remember the faith it requires to keep praying. Rejoice in the glory it brings to God as you keep returning boldly to His throne.

What is a prayer that you feel like you pray over and over? Apply this fresh vision to that prayer.

Pray: Lord, sometimes it feels like I come to you with the same things over and over again. Help me not to be discouraged but to find refreshment in the fact that I’m strengthening my muscles of surrender and faith. Help me know that you are working even when I can’t see it. In Jesus’ name, amen.