I remember hearing a statement once that went something like this: “When I am on my knees, I am imitating angels.” While I often contemplate the scenes of heaven, I don’t give much thought to imitating angels. Nonetheless, the image is thought-provoking; particularly concerning the matter of prayer. Imagine if on your next occasion to pray you could leave the features and confines of earth, and were given the means to perceive the glory and splendor, and majesty of the invisible, eternal God. With eyes fixed upon the throne of His glory, and innumerable angels roundabout you, how would you pray? Would your prayer not be filled with awe? Would it not be fervent? Would it not be solemn? Would it not be thoughtful?
The truth is, if we are to rightly understand the nature and solemnity of prayer we should begin with the realization that we do not need these imaginings. While it is true that we do not behold God fully here, our prayers are just as really in His presence as are the departed saints and angels around His throne. It is no small thing to have this understanding because, as inestimable as the privilege of prayer is, it is often a difficult privilege. Now of course, to frivolously repeat a few cold, metallic words as a matter of form is not difficult at all. But to pray in a way that pushes the temporal aside, and sincerely engages all our heart and mind toward the invisible God as though He were visible, and in a way that resigns all our thoughts and faculties to communion with Him is not easy for the pilgrim.
To aid us in this regard, perhaps we ought to simplify the issue a bit. While there is much that can be said concerning prayer, it is important to state that perhaps more than any other characteristic, the pilgrim’s prayer must be sincere. In fact, if your prayer is not an offering out of the heart, it would behoove you not to pray at all, because such prayer is worse than nothing. John 4 tells us “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.” No mere form…whether a bended knee, or some devout expression…can please God if the heart is not presenting the offering. Such was the indictment brought against Israel “This people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” (Is. 29:13). Interestingly enough, v13 from the Isaiah text ends with “Their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.”
Christian, when you come before the Lord in prayer, it is helpful to remember…God sees your heart. He knows your meaning. Lay aside the rote forms and aspirations toward eloquence. Your broken language and my broken language, when accompanied by a humble and sincere heart, are precious to Him. Pray to Him as though standing before His throne…..because you are. Speak to Him as your Father……because He is. First give Him your heart; you’re His child and He promises to hear you.
Rest assured, then, if prayer must be anything it must be sincere…and sincerity in prayer is the fruit of heart-felt meditation upon God’s word. Think of God’s majesty and greatness if you intend to praise Him. Thoughtfully consider His lovingkindness and goodness if you intend to thank Him. Ponder His infinite power if you intend to petition Him for strength. Think of the riches of His grace if you intend to petition Him for zeal and fervor. Set your mind upon your Great Redeemer and the hope of glory if you intend to pray for perseverance. Appraise your life, contemplate your offenses, and consider His limitless mercy if you intend to sincerely confess your sins.
To “imitate an angel”, first bow your heart/your will…..then bow your knee. Think…. consider…. ponder…. focus upon your inevitable entrance into eternity, the great love of Christ, and the riches that are yours…and yours forever through union with Him. Lastly, beloved, know that Christ is in heaven even now, ever living to intercede for you. He is your advocate there. Put aside pretense, and form, and feigned eloquence…and pray sincerely; relying upon His intercession. His merit is the ground of all acceptance.
Grace to you.
