Seeking A Prayerful LifeSample

The Three Great Rules for Prayer

Christ puts the matter very simply, yet strongly: “When you pray,” follow three great rules.

• Do not use meaningless repetition (v.7)

• Do not speak much (v.7)

• Trust God (v.8)

The first great rule of prayer is striking—do not use meaningless repetition or “empty phrases” (ESV). Meaningless repetition means at least two things: First, it means saying the same words over and over again without putting your heart and thought into what is being said. Second, it means using certain religious words or phrases (sometimes over and over again) and thinking God hears because you are using such religious talk. Christ does not say repetition in prayer is wrong. It is not wrong. What is wrong is vain, empty, meaningless repetition. 

The second rule of prayer is an eye-opener—do not speak much. Too many think that length equals devotion; that is, the longer they pray the more God will listen to them, and the more spiritual they will become. God does not hear our prayers because they are long, but because our hearts are genuinely poured out to Him. Length has nothing to do with devotion, but a sincere heart does.

The third rule of prayer is forceful—trust God. God knows what we need even before we ask. Why then should we pray? Prayer demonstrates our need for God and our dependency upon God. Prayer gives time for concentrated sharing and communion between us and God. 

Study Questions:

• Have you heard or are you surprised by these three rules? 

• Do you find yourself using empty phrases or speaking in length when you pray? If yes, why do you do this?

• Do you truly trust God to meet your needs? How does your trust in God reveal itself in your daily life?

It is hard not to walk away from today’s study and overanalyze your prayers. The next time you pray, let your words flow from a genuine place in your heart. Forget traditions and rules about praying, and simply speak sincerely to the Lord.