Some of the deepest conversations I have had with a friend have been one to one in private—sitting together over a cup of coffee or a meal. Sometimes I think of those moments when praying—sitting in private with God and discussing life and it’s challenges. It is that one-to-one dialogue that I envision when I read Matthew 6:6-8. Jesus told us in verse 6 “But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.”
God wants us to vocalize what’s on our heart. He is not worried about how we say it, the amount of words we use or if we use the same prayer that others are using. Jesus told us in verse 7-8, “And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”
God knows what you are going through. Like a good friend, he wants you to share how you are feeling about it. He wants you to vocalize your emotions, to tell him your worries and concerns. God may know your needs, but he also wants that connection with you. When you go through difficult times together, it can deepen your relationship with God. Prayers from the heart to God express raw emotion in a way repetitive prayers cannot.
Give ear to my words, O LORD, Consider my groaning. Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to You I pray. In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. – Psalm 5:1-3. (NASB)
140 Character Christian 
Blessings Chris! Scripture reminds us to reach out to God with our honest feelings when we bring life’s emotional needs to Him.
Yes, God wants us to share what’s on our hearts. It builds a deeper connection to Him. Blessings.
A lovely description of what prayer should be; it is a compassionate meeting of two dear friends, a Father and beloved child. He knows what is on our heart before a word is said, but like every good parent He wants to hear us ask for His help. To Him our accent or education does matter, but the heart that prays does. Thank you for sharing this devotional treasure, God bless you today 🙏
I like the analogy of a parent wanting their children to ask even though they know what they need. Thanks for sharing those thoughts. Blessings.
A pastor friend calls the type of prayer you’re talking about, “unvarnished.” We’re laying it out before God, with out embellishment. He already knows anyway!
This is a good thought to start the morning with. Thank you, brother! God Bless.
I like that phrase “unvarnished.” Our thoughts and emotions are not glossed over. We come before God just as we are, falling into his open arms. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.