Praying Like Jesusنموونە

Day 8: Which is it? Public or Private?

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others… But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen." – Matthew 6:5-6

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:5-6 is often misunderstood, with some believing that public prayer is forbidden. However, His words don’t condemn public prayer but the motives behind it. The issue isn’t where you pray; it’s why you pray. If your goal is to honor God, public prayer can be a powerful act of worship and encouragement.

We see an example of public prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:12-7:3 when King Solomon dedicated the temple. Standing before all of Israel, Solomon knelt, lifted his hands, and prayed a profound prayer of dedication. His words weren’t meant to draw attention to himself but to glorify God and invite His presence.

Solomon’s prayer carried deep significance for Israel. It acknowledged God’s covenant faithfulness and sought His favor for the future. Later, when the Israelites faced exile and hardship, this prayer reminded them of God’s promises and their need to return to Him. Public prayers like this unite God’s people, inspire faith, and call attention to His greatness.

The key difference between Solomon’s prayer and the hypocritical prayers Jesus warned against is the heart behind it. Public prayer isn’t about putting on a show; it’s about magnifying God and aligning our hearts with His purposes.

Today, consider the balance between private and public prayer in your life. If you’re called to pray publicly, approach it with humility and sincerity, seeking to glorify God rather than yourself. And remember the power of private prayer to sustain your relationship with God and guide your public expressions of faith.

Public prayer, when done with the right heart, can bless, encourage, and even shape the faith of a community. Just as Solomon’s prayer blessed generations of Israelites, your public prayers can impact those around you for God’s glory. Pray boldly, whether private or public, with a heart fully surrendered to Him.