The question, “Why do you pray?” sounds a bit banal, but it is worth taking the time to think about it calmly. We can quickly drift into a current where we no longer pray primarily to talk with God, but pray to have prayed. That makes a big difference.
We know that prayer is important—and that is a good thing. But what motivates you to pray? What drives you? Is it really the desire to tell God what is moving your heart? What keeps you on your knees—the nearness of God or a glance at the clock? Are you proud when you manage to pray for a somewhat longer stretch? It is good to ask yourself these critical questions from time to time—and to correct yourself when you realize that you have gone off track.
Real prayer is expressed by saying what moves us and what burns in our soul. You focus on God’s presence and the concern you bring before Him, without paying attention to the time. Does that characterize your prayer life?
We cannot impress God through outward religiosity. “for people look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
Therefore David calls on us: “Pour out your hearts before Him; God is a refuge for us.” (Psalms 62:8).
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