Talking TO God in private is personal. Talking ABOUT God in public is, well . . . public. And talking TO God in public? Problematic! Usually, we get tongue-tied. We worry about sounding spiritual, saying what’s “right,” and what others think.
At times, talking to God in public comes easily:
- At religious events, such as Easter Sunday or
Chrismas Eve - At formal occasions, like weddings or funerals
Or when we need help:
- financial ruin
- accidents
- depression
- death
- national disaster
But prayer is still easiest in private, when we’re . . .
- just alone
- in some cathedral
- in a pew in the church where we grew up
I have comforting news. God has no expectation of where we pray. He desires that we come to Him like children do—boldly, vulnerably. And children do this wherever they are. Listen to Jesus’s words:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” . . . And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. (Mark 10:14, 16 NIV)
God already knows what’s in your soul—your sorrows and joys, wishes and disappointments, needs and wants. He knows already, but He longs for you to tell Him. And doing it is simple and freeing. Why not just do it?
Lord, sometimes I’m afraid of the dark, rejection, and being alone. I wonder what You think when I lie or cheat, when bitterness is easier than forgiveness, when I feel mean but You say to be kind. Do You love me when I make mistakes? Do you care that other people are smarter than me? Will You help me when I’m afraid or lonely? I hope it’s okay to talk to You this way; do You love me even though this sounds silly? I love You, Jesus; I want to be friends.