Empty Words: Phyllis Hendry Halverson

The LORD often rebuked His people for using empty words in their worship. Jesus cautioned His disciples against babbling in prayer. How does it happen that we find ourselves mindlessly repeating familiar phrases in prayer or worship? How is it that we give God “lip service” but fail to serve Him with our hearts, heads, hands, and habits? Could it be that we forget that God is a person? Jesus knew that His Father was alive and well. Their conversations were personal and intimate, never formulaic. The early disciples learned to talk with Jesus and listen for His reply. What about you?
And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. – Matthew 6:7