Reasons why we don't pray 3

3. Prayer is something unseen and we often like to be seen

Part of what makes an iceberg the phenomenon it is, is the fact that some five eighths of it lies, unseen, below the water's surface. In a similar way, it is often the case that a person's power in public, where he can be seen, grows out of what has gone on in private, where he cannot be seen. Take musicians for example. Most musicians worth listening to are worth listening to because they have honed their craft unseen, behind closed doors. Self-denial and a willingness to be hidden are essential if one is to make a mark here and in similar ways too.

Now in the matter of private prayer, we also have an essentially unseen activity. It can only be done in secret. Because it is that sort of activity, no-one knows for certain, except you and God himself, just how much time you give to such unseen private prayer.

Now, although this will no doubt vary from person to person, one reason why most of us spend so little time in private prayer is because of its unseen, hidden nature. Attending meetings, preaching, public prayer, formal evangelism and similar things are seen by men. Though it is sin to do even these good things simply to be seen by men, even the best of us would have to admit that an element of man pleasing can be present when we engage in these public activities. When it comes to private prayer that temptation is not present in anything like the same way and it is no doubt another factor in the paucity of private prayer that can so often characterise us.

Going back to musicians. It is sometimes said of the most highly dedicated and skillful musicians that if they fail to practice for a few days, they can see the difference; a few more days and friends can see the difference; a little longer again and the general public will be aware. Perhaps there is something applicable in that to genuine heartfelt private prayer.

As for dealing with the problem of our lack of prayer, one of the things we must do is to work at humbling ourselves before him and subduing pride. Careful self-examination will reveal areas where we are being menpleasers. Success in overcoming this sin will at least make us more ready to give the time and effort needed to be alone with God, unseen, and to pray.