⁷ And when you pray, do not keep on babbling^(A) like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.^{(B) 8} Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need^(C) before you ask him.

The Wise and Foolish Builders^(A)

⁴⁶ “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’^(B) and do not do what I say?^{(C) 47} As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice,^(D) I will show you what they are like. ⁴⁸ They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. ⁴⁹ But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”

²³ but I gave them this command:^(A) Obey^(B) me, and I will be your God and you will be my people.^(C) Walk in obedience to all^(D) I command you, that it may go well^(E) with you.