Let us remember this in our private devotions. It must not satisfy us to say good words, if our heart and our lips do not go together. What does it profit us to be fluent and lengthy, if our imaginations are roving far away while we are upon our knees? It profits us nothing at all. God sees what we are really doing, and rejects our offering. Heart-prayers are the prayers He loves to hear. Heart-prayers are the only prayers that He will answer. Our petitions may be weak, stammering, and poor in our eyes. They may be presented with no fine words, or well-chosen language, and might seem almost unintelligible, if they were written down. But if they come from a right heart, God understands them. Such prayers are His delight.
~ J.C. Ryle
Expository Thoughts on the Gospels: Mark, [Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1985], 137. {Mark 7:1-13}
Oh wow! That is so encouraging because so often my prayers seem to fall in the category of “uninspired stammering.” But I’m pretty sure they are what my heart is trying to communicate. Excellent quote. Thanks.
This is SO true! Many years ago (25+) my sweet DH was hesitant to speak out his prayers because he felt his words were inadequate, so frequently I heard, “Uh, uh, amen.” when we agreed together in prayer. One morning I had an especially important meeting to attend and he knew I was concerned about it. As I was about to walk out the door he called me back to pray for me. His prayer was sweet, powerful and to the point. I began to rejoice in my heart with a bit of dancing as well. Immediately I heard these words in my heart…”Nancy, I’m glad you’re happy, but this is NOT the first time DH has prayed for you! My ears are far more excellent than yours, while you were hearing, ‘Uh, uh, amen’…I was hearing his heart!”
When God corrects me, He usually uses my name….Sweet correction from the Spirit remains with your heart forever.
This is really wonderful! And the only way to get the attention of the Father. God is very interested in the relationship between our mouth and heart. Because HOW (from the heart) you say your prayers is as important as WHAT (from the mouth) you say.
I needed this! Do I need to say more? Thank you!!