When the Bible comments on prayer, it is obvious God does not intend for our prayers to be either a soliloquy or a monologue.  Unfortunately, we tend to be the one doing all the talking when it comes to our times of prayer, and God has another idea if we genuinely desire to draw near to Him.  The words of Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 address this matter in the following way:  “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God.  Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.  Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God.  God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”  In the following chapter he went on to write, “The more words, the less meaning, and how does that profit anyone?” (Ecclesiastes 6:11)  Apparently our praying does not amount to much if we fail to listen to God.

     While teaching His disciples concerning prayer, Jesus said, “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.  Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:7-8)  James, the half-brother of Jesus, had this to say on the subject of listening:  “Dear brothers, take note of this:  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)  When we pray, we have to be still and quiet in order to hear God.  Our present prayer style typically involves us running up to God’s door, ringing the doorbell, and leaving before God opens the door.  We prefer to be busy like Martha was as she made preparation for the next big meal, but Jesus commended Mary, her sister, for staying close and listening to what He had to say.  As we pray, we do make our requests known to God, but we are to take the time to await His reply.  Better yet, there are times we should quietly sit in His presence without saying anything.  Meaningful prayer provides plenty of time for listening to God.