7But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. (Matthew 6:5-8)

 

Some of the most effective prayers are the shortest prayers. Jesus said, “Peace, be still,” and the wind and the waves ceased. (Mark 4:39.) He said, “Lazarus, come forth,” and Lazarus came back from the dead. (John 11:43,44.) On the other hand, today in many churches and prayer meetings, there is a new emphasis on the quantity of prayer instead of the quality of prayer. Jesus never advocated long prayers, and there are only a few instances where He prayed long prayers. This is not to say that communion with God is not important. It certainly is, but formal prayer is only one part of our communion with Him.

Many times we ask the Lord to speak to us, but He can’t get a word in edgewise! We are doing all the talking. It is interesting that in Psalm 5:1,2 the words prayer and meditation are interchangeable. That means keeping your mind stayed on the things of God throughout your day is prayer. There are also times when you need to be still and know that He is God. (Ps. 46:10.) This is prayer too.

It is not the length but your heartfelt faith makes your prayer a quality prayer. Today when you pray, understand that God is not hard of hearing. You don’t have to repeat something over and over to get His attention, and prayer is not a means for you to impress Him or anyone else. Simply communicate with Him according to His Word, and you will not only get answers but you will also grow up in Him.