Private Praise (#70 of 365+)

“Do those things that are pleasing in his sight” (1 John 3:22)

Joni’s friend Careen has been blessed with a beautiful singing voice. She loves to sing praise songs to God and often does so
privately behind closed doors. She doesn’t seek a spotlight or a stage; she’s completely content with her audience of one. As Joni said, “Enjoy the privilege that you have a private audience with the most important Person in heaven and on earth. Make it your ambition to be pleasing to him… far from the ears and eyes of others”.

Although I blog my daily devotional for the public to see, there is much that I learn and pray about that I keep private between my Lord and I. He has taught me so much these past two months! If you aren’t having a private time to worship and pray alone with God, or if you’re a skeptic and don’t know if there even is a God, I challenge you to start a devotional time today. You don’t have to commit to doing something long-term or lengthy. Begin with a small commitment, like six weeks of 15 – 20 minutes per day. Give it all you’ve got. Read the bible (preferably with the help of a devotional book) and set aside time to pray. If you’re a believer, set aside a few minutes to worship through song. If you’re a skeptic, tell the triune God that you’re inviting him to show you that he’s real. I dare you... If you’re earnestly seeking him in private away from the eyes and ears of others, God will never disappoint.

Jesus said, “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 men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 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” (Matthew 6:5-6 NIV).

Or, in a different modern-day interpretation: “And when you come before God, don't turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat? Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace” (Matthew 6:5-6 MSG).

Lord, thank you that I can pray directly to you without the help of a priest or mediator. I cherish our private time together. It is an honor to know you personally. May everyone who reads this post be drawn to know you as well. Amen.