The Upside-Down Kingdom
Have you ever caught yourself saying something just because you knew someone else was listening? Maybe you talked a little louder so your parents could overhear how responsible you sounded, or you made sure your friends noticed how “spiritual” you were when you prayed before lunch. If we’re honest, we’ve all done it. And Jesus had something strong to say about that kind of behavior—especially when it comes to prayer.
Prayer Isn’t a Performance
In Matthew 6, Jesus warns us not to be like the hypocrites who love to stand and pray in public places, not because they love God, but because they love attention. He said, “They have their reward” (Matthew 6:5). In other words, if your goal is for people to think you’re spiritual, and they do—congrats. You got what you wanted. But don’t expect anything from God.
That’s a serious warning.
Prayer was never meant to be a stage. It’s not about stringing together impressive words or sounding deeply theological so others admire you. God doesn’t listen for elegance—He listens for honesty.
The scary thing is how easy it is to let pride sneak in. You might be using prayer, something God gave you to grow closer to Him, as a way to promote yourself. That’s what Jesus called hypocrisy: acting like you’re talking to God while secretly hoping someone else is listening.
Prayer Is Personal
So what should prayer look like?
Jesus says, “But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret” (Matthew 6:6). No stage. No spotlight. Just you and God.
Now, does that mean you can never pray out loud or in front of others? Not at all. Jesus prayed in public. The early church prayed together. But the key is your motive. Are you praying to God… or to people?
If you’ve ever prayed out loud and felt your words shifting to impress the people around you, you’ve tasted what Jesus is warning about. That’s the moment to slam the door—on your pride, your need for approval, your desire to impress—and remember who you’re talking to.
God Sees in Secret
When no one sees your prayers, God does.
When no one hears your voice but Him, He listens.
And when no one claps for your devotion, God rewards.
That’s the heart of the prayer Jesus honors. He’s not interested in the theater of religion. He wants the real thing. He wants you.
You don’t have to be eloquent. You don’t have to be long. You just have to be humble and honest. Talk to Him like you would a loving Father—because that’s exactly who He is.
So, Why Do You Pray?
Ask yourself this question: Why do I pray?
Is it because you want to know God, to walk with Him, to get His help, His wisdom, His comfort? Or is it because you want to appear godly? Do you pray differently when others are listening than when it’s just you and God?
Jesus is calling you to stop pretending and start connecting. The hypocrite gets attention. The humble get God.
Choose the better reward.
This Article is a part of a series
The Upside-Down Kingdom
Bobby Bosler is director of Thee Generation and pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church in Fairmont, WV. He, his wife, Abi, and their four children traveled the country for 14 years in evangelism, reaching teens with the gospel and conducting revival meetings.
Our words. AI polished. This article was adapted from the author's original content using AI. We’ve used technology to clarify and adapt the message—while keeping the heart and voice the same. All articles are proofread and edited by a human.
