Rewards of Prayer

Posted by pennycrosland on Aug 25, 2010 in Daily Bread | 0 comments

Should we draw attention to ourselves and our prayers while praying for others? Does this verse mean we shouldn’t gather for corporate prayer? No on both counts, I don’t think so. The hypocrite is praying to be seen by men, to call attention to how spiritual they are and not focusing on God. Admit it we have all been there when an individual showboats during prayer group. Rambles on and on about how wretched so and so is acting, or how sinful they are and how much they need God (Gauwd). They are loud and long winded. They may know lots of scripture, and even use the Lord’s name frequently. But their prayer is so they can be recognized. The verse tells us that they have their reward. Man’s attention and praise.

So does this mean we shouldn’t pray in groups or out loud? Matt. 18:19-20 says “Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.” We are to join together in prayer. If we agree and ask together God says it shall be done. I think corporate prayer strengthens the body. It binds us together before the Lord. So from this verse I think we need to be careful about praying out loud to be noticed but gather together with humble hearts seeking what God wants to do in our mist. If we can accomplish seeking and finding God’s will and direction we will as a group be blessed with God’s answers, His praise and His reward which I think is a blessing.

Just as a last thought the second part of the passage talks about prayer closet praying. I would ask how often do you get away and pray? Have you spent a day or more in quiet behind closed door prayer? If not why not?????