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Words of Sincerity

by John Tilton on June 07, 2021

Scripture

“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.  Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God.  God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.  A dream comes when there are many cares, and many words mark the speech of a fool.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3) 

Observation

Such wise words to honor the Lord with words of sincerity when we come before Him.  Our well-meant intent can sometimes result in praying with words that sound good.  We often mean well with what we tell the Lord, but perhaps don’t really mean what we say, or fulfill what we intend.  We even utter words that sound holy and end up being “Christianese,” saying what is a cliché word or phrase that we’ve heard.  These scriptures search our hearts to think about how we come before the Lord and what to say to the Lord.  These scriptures encourage us to be sincere, intentional, and authentic before the Lord with heartfelt prayers when we talk with the Lord.  Remember, He does reply in many ways as we wait upon Him.

Application

I have to admit as I ponder these scriptures that I do need to remember and be intentional in my posture, sincerity, and heart before the Lord in prayer and talking story with Him.  God sees all and knows all.  He knows my thoughts.  Thus, I know that He doesn’t want to hear fluffy words or Christianese, but He wants to hear my heart and my sincerity.  I know there are times where I tend to feel a longer prayer might be more what God wants to hear.  Instead, I know that God is impressing on me that simple and sincerity with authenticity is the best; like that old saying “sometimes less if more.”

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that you want my heart, especially when I come before you in prayer.  Thank you for guiding me to dispel the notion that more words or eloquent words are better.  Instead, I am thankful that I know I should prayer with authenticity and sincerity ... KISS – Keep It Simple Saint.  Thank you, Lord, for hearing my prayers, answering my prayers in your still and small voice, and blessing me by your faithfulness.

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