MAY 20
MATTHEW 6:5_thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are for they love to pray in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men…
Oh my goodness! Here we go with the hypocrites again, and they are back in the synagogues and the streets! Jesus doesn’t want the praying there any more than He wanted the alms giving there.
Don’t get confused about this—the devil would love to deceive you into believing you should not pray out loud. If you are a part of a youth group that prays together—stay with it and pray together.
Praying out loud is a part of the salt and light process. Prayer encourages seekers who may be a part of your group. Helping the seekers find their way is what salt and light are meant to do.
When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead He prayed out loud. John 11:41-42 (KJV), “And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.”
There was a large crowd gathered to comfort the sisters of Lazarus. Jesus purposely prayed out loud. Any unbelievers in the group would know first, that Jesus was sent by God, and second, that God always hears prayer.
The result was the greatest miracle Jesus performed in His earthly life!
PRAYER
God of Heaven, Please let my prayers give attention to You, not me! In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.
Christ’s prayers were salt and light—mine should be too!
The Works of Her Hands 
Those Jesus called out as hypocrites were always the religious leaders and when I read this passage, I’m reminded how religion as one’s method of putting potatoes on the table can cause religious leaders to give way to pleasing people rather than God. Jesus is the only One Who remained forever and always true to God.
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Amen! Thank you for that!!!
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I think you are listening to the spirit accurately in this reading. Jesus said in the beginning of the sermon on the mount that our light should shine for all men to see. BUT for the intent of bringing glory to God! Its a matter of intent. If we feel like we are going to lose focus in prayer and focus on who is around us, then it’s best to pray in your closet alone. If we focus on God and his glory, then praying aloud is great! Blessings.
Christian and motivational author. follow @ http://www.christiantalkwithgeorgiosmitrakos.wordpress.com
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Amen! And thank you for the comment!!!
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