The Gutsy Girl’s Guide to PrayerNäide

Prayer Motivation

The appropriateness of praying in public all boils down to motivation. Just as we’re to give to the poor without drawing attention to ourselves, that same need for discretion is shared here. If we’re honest, we’d have to confess to certain situations where we “virtue signaled” to impress others. It’s something we’ve all done a time or two. We want to look good because it makes us feel better or more important. Yet in the process, we end up giving others a false impression of who we truly are.

In response to today’s verses, the question to ask ourselves is if we’re praying as a public performance. Are we praying in front of others to benefit us personally?

Friend, don’t read what this passage isn’t saying. Nothing’s wrong with lifting your voice to God when others are around. Praying out loud for a family meal at a restaurant, at a small group meeting at church, or with friends at the park is not wrong or bad. That’s not what is being suggested in this passage. But the Lord sees immense value in going into a private room, closing the door, and praying unseen.

The warning here is to make sure you’re praying to be heard by God and not praying to be elevated by those you’re with or those who may be in earshot. This is just another example of how to pray effectively so your reward will come from God and not from a worldly source.

Remember that the Bible is our guide for knowing how to walk out a life of faith. And also, keep in mind that it’s in those sacred spaces—those times and places where you’re alone with the Lord—that you are seen. You can pray courageously, expectantly, and honestly and know that you are heard.

Prayer: Dear Lord, let my prayer motivation be authentic and faith-filled. Let me pray only to be in your presence rather than to impress anyone listening. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Was this plan helpful? We adapted it from the book The Gutsy Girl's Guide to Prayer by Carey Scott.