Beth HaDerech; Messianic Jewish Congregation, Toronto, Canada

What is Hitbodedut? Praying in Seclusion

When you pray, do not use a lot of meaningless words, as the pagans do, who think that their gods will hear them because their prayers are long. Do not be like them. Your Father already knows what you need before you ask him. Mattityahu / Matthew 6:5-15 (TEV) God created you and so he wants you to be the real you. By being authentic when you speak to God, you worship him as you Creator. For years I copied the prayers of other people. I noticed they used certain words and even a special tone of voice. I imitated all the religious clichés: "Lead, guide and direct us, O Lord." "Bless this food to the nourishment of our bodies." "Bless the gift and the giver." In the Besora Tova HaGeula (Good News of Redemption), we hear of people who had prayers which were wordy, meaningless rituals (some people think that speaking lots will get their answer, or even speaking in a King James version language).  There is no spontaneity, no genuineness.  But Maran Yeshua says don't get caught up in fancy complicated prayer. You don't have to use fancy language.  You can't impress God with fancy language, and you shouldn't be trying to impress other people either.  I love to hear new believers pray -- no pious pomposity.  They haven't learned the clichés yet.  They just say, "Hi,...