Matthew 6:8

8 Don't be like them, because your Father knows what you need before you ask.

Matthew 6:8 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 6:8

Be not ye therefore like unto them
. Do not be imitators of them, and follow their ways, who have only the dim light of nature to guide them; it would be shameful in you to do as they do, when you have a divine revelation for your direction; and especially, because

your Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask him;
and therefore have no need to make use of many words, or much speaking, or long prayers. The omniscience of God is a considerable argument, and a great encouragement to prayer; he knows our persons and our wants before hand; and as he is able to help us, we have reason to believe he will; especially since he stands in the relation of a Father to us.

Matthew 6:8 In-Context

6 But when you pray, go to your room, shut the door, and pray to your Father who is present in that secret place. Your Father who sees what you do in secret will reward you.

7 “When you pray, don't pour out a flood of empty words, as the Gentiles do. They think that by saying many words they'll be heard.

8 Don't be like them, because your Father knows what you need before you ask.

9 Pray like this: Our Father who is in heaven, uphold the holiness of your name.

10 Bring in your kingdom so that your will is done on earth as it's done in heaven.