Day 11

Matthew 6:5-8

5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 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. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."

God, thank you for the gift of prayer. You already know everything about us including what we need and dream of. You don't need or even want fancy, complicated words; You want us to come just as we are. You want our hearts and everything that's hidden deep within us in that most secret place -- the hurts, pains, joys, dreams and deepest needs. You want us to bring it all to You in prayer. Let us remember to come to You for everything. Ignite in Your people a desire to hold You close and speak to You humbly but with confidence. We need to be able to show the world Your love and kindness with boldness. Let it begin with prayer in this secret place cuddled close to Your heart.

- Kaitlin Layden