July 7 – Day 188. Enter your closet and pray with the Lord

Welcome to another episode of the EBC's Prayer Podcast. Our scripture will be taken from Matthew 6:6, which reads: “When thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”

The Lord wants us to embark on this spiritual journey, accept the power of prayer, and seek a space where we can cultivate an intimate and personal connection with him. Imagine stepping into a quiet room, where the outside world fades away. Close the door behind you, create a sanctuary free from distractions, and invite an atmosphere that fosters peace as we pray.

In this sacred space, let us allow our hearts to be drawn towards our Father, who sees and understands the depths of our sincere devotion. It is in this secret place that we can pour out our souls, sharing our hopes, fears, and gratitude to the Lord. When we approach Him in such a humble and personal manner, we can find comfort in knowing that our earnest prayers are not only acknowledged but also treasured.

As we pray, let us remember that God observes every prayer. At the perfect time, he will respond with blessings that manifest openly in our lives, reflecting the sincerity of our devotion and the strength of our faith.

Transcript

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father. Our Lord, God, and Savior. Father, we come before you with our hearts full of gratitude, humility, and reverence. Lord, we acknowledge that every moment of life we live, and every blessing we enjoy, comes from you alone. We are nothing without you, and in your great mercy and love, you call us your children and invite us into your holy presence. 

Father, thank you for reminding us in your word that when we pray, we should enter into the secret place, close the door behind us, and pray to you, who sees all things in secret. And you, who sees in secret, will reward us openly. 

Lord, a true relationship with you is not about outward appearances or the approval of others, but about quiet devotion, faithfulness, and a sincere heart. Cultivate within us a spirit of genuine humility. Break down every seed of pride, every temptation that seeks the applause of men rather than the approval of you. Teach us to walk gently, to serve peacefully, and to give generously, not for recognition, but because of your love. 

Lord, may our hearts reflect the humility of you, who came not to be served but to serve, and to give your life as a ransom for many. Lord, you humbled yourself even to the point of death on a cross for our sake. You gave without expecting anything in return, pouring yourself out completely for us to receive true life. May we strive to walk in your footsteps, imitating your humility, your generous spirit, and your boundless love.

Lord, plant in us an unwavering spirit of generosity. Remind us daily that everything we have is a gift from you. Our resources, our talents, our time, they are not our own. They belong to you. Help us to hold loosely to earthly treasures and cling tightly to eternal truths. Help us to give freely, without fear of need, because you are our provider. Lord, help us to serve you cheerfully, without expectation, because you are our reward.

Lord, thank you for the constant reminder that true reward comes from you alone, a treasure far exceeding the momentary glory this world can offer. Keep our hearts fixed on that eternal promise, the crown of life you have assured to those who love you. Help us to remember that even the simplest act of kindness, like offering a cup of water in your name, does not go unnoticed in your sight.

Lord, as we navigate those moments when our service feels unseen or underappreciated, teach us to find comfort in the certainty that you see every act of love, every fervent prayer, and every sacrifice we make. Your watchful eyes are never blind to our faithfulness, and your heart is always attentive to our labor of love. Encourage us in those hidden moments to keep praying, for your faithfulness assures us that our efforts are never in vain.

Father, shape our hearts so that our joy springs forth from loving others as you have loved us. Instill in us the strength to persevere and never grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we will reap the reward if we remain steadfast.

Lord, strengthen us each day. When we are tempted to seek credit or recognition, redirect our hearts toward gratitude. When we feel hesitant to give, ignite within us a spark of courage and compassion. In our weariness, renew our strength, and when doubts cloud our minds, remind us that we are diligently storing up treasures in heaven, where moth and rust cannot devour and where thieves cannot break in and steal.

Lord, we surrender ourselves to you entirely. Take our voices and use them to encourage those in need. Take our hearts and mold them to love unconditionally. Let every act of service we perform, no matter how grand or humble, be dedicated to your glory.

Lord, thank you for hearing our fervent prayer. May we find rest in your promises, rejoice in your faithfulness, and place our trust in the perfection of your reward. so that we can have life more abundantly. 

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray…Amen.

Everyone. Please have a great day, and by God’s grace, we will pray again tomorrow…Bye-bye.