PRAYING WITH AWE
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6 NIV
We often hear this scripture in the context of not performing acts of intimacy with God for the sake of being seen by others, but rather doing them in secret, trusting that our reward comes only from Him.
While this interpretation is absolutely valid, there is another layer to consider. We must also guard our hearts and minds against becoming too familiar with God in a way that diminishes our reverence and awe of Him. As the saying goes, “familiarity breeds contempt,” and this can happen in our relationship with God as well. When we lose our sense of wonder, we risk developing what Paul describes as a “seared conscience,” which can show up in our devotion and spiritual disciplines.
Child of God, whenever you enter the presence of God, come with expectation—expecting good things to come. Remember, He desires to speak to you, and your time with Him is meant to be a dialogue, not a monologue. Praise God for His ongoing desire to connect with us!
Prayer: Father, thank You for this wisdom. As the psalmist says, “A day in Your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.” Teach my heart to continually be amazed by who You are, so that I may faithfully carry out the work You have set before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Psalm 84:10
• 1 Timothy 4:2