Jesus, in his teachings, criticized the hypocritical attitudes of religious people who practice prayer in a demonstrative manner, seeking to be noticed by others rather than communicating sincerely with God.
A concrete example of this criticism is found in the fact that Jesus observed these religious people praying standing in synagogues or on street corners, deliberately seeking public places to display their piety. Instead of manifesting deep sincerity in their communication with God, they were more concerned with the desire to be seen and applauded by men.
"But when you pray, go into your closet, and shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you ."
Here Jesus offers a directive on personal, intimate prayer. Jesus urges private communion with God, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and depth in the spiritual life.
The image of âyour roomâ and âthe closed doorâ symbolizes an inner space, sheltered from outside eyes, conducive to a personal encounter with the Creator. God wants you to close the door to all the lies of the devil, to the toxic relationships that drag you down, to the temptations of distraction, to complacency in comfort, to destructive judgments and criticisms, to hurts, to negative thoughts as well as to the chains of sin. Indeed, all of these block the call of God in your life.
Closing the door, in this context, represents a conscious decision to distance oneself from lies and harmful influences. It also means choosing not to allow elements into oneâs life that are contrary to the truth of Godâs Word.
Indeed, many thoughts contrary to Godâs will can invade our minds. However, by closing the door, we are able to eliminate the discordant voices and create a space where Godâs presence becomes more perceptible. In this secret place, devoid of mental distractions, we become more receptive to Godâs voice.
The concept of the "secret place" underlines the need to find an interior space, not only physical but also spiritual, where one can open oneself authentically to God without artifice or seeking human approval. It is in this intimacy that prayer takes on a special meaning, allowing a deep connection with the heavenly Father.
The final promise, "your Father who sees in secret will reward you," speaks of the reward of intimate prayer. God, who knows the most secret thoughts of the heart, responds to such prayer with divine understanding and closeness. Jesus urges believers to seek God especially in the secret place, where the soul can express itself freely before the Creator.
The world often applauds visible manifestations of success, such as acquiring a new car or house etc. However, integrity and true values, while crucial, do not usually receive the same public recognition.
BUT... what you sow IN SECRET, you will reap PUBLICLY .
Jesus gives priority to where to pray before addressing how to pray. After establishing the importance of place, Jesus then addresses how to pray by emphasizing simplicity in communicating with God, as found in the following verses of Matthew 6.
Think of David fighting the giant Goliath, symbolizing the conquest of faith over fear. Think of the apostle Paul, battling adversities and criticism while persevering in his ministry. Likewise, in your Christian life, close the door to lies by arming yourself with the truth of Godâs Word . Combat negative influences by surrounding yourself with uplifting and supportive fellow believers. Be aware of the pitfalls of distraction, following the example of Jesus who, in the wilderness, repelled the devilâs temptations with the power of Godâs Word.
Strengthen yourself against criticism by remembering that even Jesus was criticized, but He persevered in His mission. As you overcome these struggles, you will be able to fully embrace Godâs call and live a fulfilling Christian life.
God has a specific plan for you, He desires to restore your broken soul. In order to hear God's voice clearly, resolutely close all doors to other influences.
"My people, go into your room and shut your door behind you; hide yourself for a little while." Isaiah 26:20