Matthew 6:7-21

Contemporary English Version

^7 (A) When you pray, don't talk on and on as people do who don't know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. ⁸ Don't be like them. Your Father knows what you need even before you ask.

⁹ You should pray like this:

^14 (B)(C) If you forgive others for the wrongs they do to you, your Father in heaven will forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you don't forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Worshiping God by Going without Eating

¹⁶ When you go without eating,^[d] don't try to look gloomy as those show-offs do when they go without eating. I can assure you that they already have their reward. ^17 (D) Instead, comb your hair and wash your face. ¹⁸ Then others won't know you are going without eating. But your Father sees what is done in private, and he will reward you.

Treasures in Heaven

(Luke 12.33,34)

^19 (E) Don't store up treasures on earth! Moths and rust can destroy them, and thieves can break in and steal them. ^20 (F) Instead, store up your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy them, and thieves cannot break in and steal them. ²¹ Your heart will always be where your treasure is.