Behind Closed Doors

This devotional considers Matthew 6:1-18, focusing on 5-6; Psalm 26:4-8.

Jesus taught us that when giving to those in need, when praying and when fasting, we should do these things in secret. He warns us to be careful not to practice [our] righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. He gives us practical examples of what to do to safeguard these practices. Regarding prayer he taught…when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.

What is it about secrecy that’s so helpful in prayer? Jesus plainly, that is, without the use of a parable, says that hypocrites stand in the synagogue and on street corners to pray. Now, the vast majority of the time that word “hypocrite” is used in Scripture, it’s by Jesus. It’s used once in the Old Testament, in the Psalms, regarding not associating with people who are like this. The thing is, though, right after saying this, David declared I wash my hands in innocence and go about your altar, Lord, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds. 

The Pharisees did what David did—they went about the altar openly and in front of everyone. So, what is pleasing to God, then? Openness or secrecy?

I believe it’s a heart matter. Our motivation for doing spiritual practices, like prayer, must come out of a love for being in the Lord’s presence, and being content with his eyes on us. A hypocrite is akin to an actor on a stage whose goal is to please the audience—for the applause. The heart condition of the person Jesus is describing is one of hardness, one that is lacking in sincerity and genuineness.

Don’t be offended at Jesus’ words which in this case comes at us fast and straight like arrows. One thing is for sure—whether in front of others or in secret, the Lord sees and knows us fully. It’s not that we can’t be hypocrites behind closed doors, too. 

But he says that the Father is unseen which gives a sense of a greater, loftier, all encompassing, inescapable, indwelling and permeating presence. It’s as if he is saying to seek after that which is greater. If you’re looking for answered prayer, for the maximum profit or return, then engage with God who is fully and always all of what you need. It’s that, or the adoration of others. Not much of a choice, yet, we often don’t choose well.

Our encouragement today, then, is to pray in such a way and in such a place where we can bare our hearts fully to the Lord who wants to bless us in ways we have not seen or heard of.

Amen.