In Matthew 6:6, Jesus extends a profound invitation:

“But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

The Message paraphrase underscores simplicity and authenticity:

“Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense His grace.”

While corporate prayer is powerful and advocated throughout Scripture, there is something deeply transformative about the practice of private, secret prayer behind closed doors. Jesus emphasized its significance for several reasons:

1. Honest and Transparent Praying

Behind a closed door, we are alone with God. With no one else listening, our prayers are raw, transparent, and deeply personal. In contrast, public prayer—though meaningful—can sometimes be influenced by the awareness of others. When we shut the door, we can pour out our hearts without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. This unguarded honesty fosters a deeper connection with the Lord.

2. Intimacy with God

Intimacy is best cultivated in private, and in secret prayer, we experience true intimacy with God. Like the spiritual oneness that forms the foundation of a strong marriage, our relationship with God flourishes when we connect spirit-to-spirit. Behind a closed door, we can express our deepest emotions and longings without inhibition.

3. Freedom from Distractions

Private prayer minimizes distractions. Life can be noisy. How often have you resolved to pray, only to be interrupted by a phone call, a knock at the door, or intrusive thoughts about unfinished tasks? These distractions can dilute the depth of our communion with God. By “shutting the door,” we create a sanctuary. Just as a wildlife sanctuary protects its inhabitants, “shut door praying” shields us from external disturbances. This quiet space allows us to focus fully on the Lord and listen for His voice.

4. Positioning for the Supernatural

Private prayer paves the way for God’s supernatural intervention. Throughout Scripture, we see examples of closed-door prayers leading to miracles. In 2 Kings 4, the widow obeyed Elisha’s instruction to shut the door before pouring her small jar of oil into borrowed vessels. Her obedience behind closed doors resulted in God’s provision. Similarly, the Shunammite woman laid her dead son on the prophet’s bed, and both the grieving mother and the prophet shut the door, preparing the way for the resurrection.

In the New Testament, Jesus and His disciples also demonstrated the power of closed-door prayer. In Luke 8, Jesus shut out the doubters before raising Jairus’ daughter. In Acts 9, Peter prayed behind closed doors before Dorcas was miraculously brought back to life. These stories remind us that private, faith-filled prayer prepares the way for God’s supernatural work.

The Real Power Runs Deep!

The energy generated by a hydroelectric dam reminds me of the unseen power of private prayer. The visible spray and foam seen from above the dam are impressive, but the real power lies deep within—where the water flow turns the turbines, generating energy. Likewise, the power of God is generated in the quiet, private moments behind closed doors. The anointing that transforms lives, heals hearts, and brings revival is cultivated in the secret place.

A Challenge for You

Do you have a designated place for secret prayer? Whether it’s a quiet corner of your home, a closet, or even a secluded outdoor spot, establishing a personal sanctuary for prayer is essential. For me, it’s my “prayer recliner” in my study. In this sacred space, I pour out my heart to God, listen for His voice, and receive the strength to face life’s challenges.

Shut the door. Meet with God. Watch what God will do.

The words of an old hymn capture this admonition:

Shut in with God in a secret place,
There in the Spirit, beholding His face;
Gaining new power to run in this race,
I love to be shut in with God.

Let’s heed the call to the secret place, knowing that what we do in secret will be rewarded openly.