Pray with your eyes open/closed?

Preacher of KJV · 12-20-2009, 09:18 PM

Is it ok to pray with your eyes open? I always prayed with my eyes closed but someone told me they prayed with their eyes open because they didn't like closing their eyes and there is nothing in the Bible against leaving them open during this time....I think they should be closed out of respect, but I don't really know. Can someone provide answers? lol

Zipster · 12-21-2009, 10:52 AM

The Bible says very little about what to do when you pray; the clearest teaching on prayer is found in the gospels in Matthew 6 and in The Lord's Prayer - though, certainly other passages contribute, they do not seem as important as those two.

Even with those other passages considered, we do not see a list of things that must be done when praying, but you see a variety of examples of things people do throughout scripture.

This leads me to say that how you pray is a personal thing. The thing is that prayer is a bridge between you and God; it is the primary way of communication and it doesn't have to be in the least bit formal.

There are some that would insist that praying should be done a certain way - however, such is contrary to the example set by scripture. If you feel comfortable with your eyes closed - and see that as an act of reverence and respect, then by all means close your eyes: but, the thing is not to push your manner of prayer onto others as the way to pray.

I know some cultures pray with their face to the sky, because they want God to see their face when they pray. Other people prefer to be on their knees in prayer, signifying their submission and worship of Him. Some people fold their hands, while others raise their hands to God. Some prefer to pray in the Spirit, and others prefer to pray silently.

As it is, I do not know anyone who does these things every time they pray; Scripture says that we are to "pray without ceasing." No one walks around with their hands in the sky, their eyes closed, crawling on their knees, or with their faces pointed to the sky all day.

Pray as you see fit to pray. God is well aware of what's in your heart as you pray; he's aware if you're doing anything out of traditional formality, or if it's being done sincerely. We've all heard it said that you can pray anywhere. I think an important part of growing closer to God is acknowledging that prayer isn't always a formal thing that needs to be done - though, there are certainly times for formality.

Just go to God as you are, when you are. You can sit, stand, run, lay, kneel, or whatever. I often pray as I lay in bed at night, and when I'm at work - always asking God for his grace. I will pray when I'm just sitting around, and sometimes it's as if I'm just having a normal conversation in the same way I would with anyone else - just sitting there casually and talking.

So, pray as you wish to pray; just be sincere.

Little princess · 12-21-2009, 04:24 PM

As far as I can tell, there is no specific instruction about whether or not people should pray with thier eyes open and closed. As such, I personally believe that it is okay to do either, depending on the situation.

We are told to: "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 [emphysis mine]).

In other words, I feel that God is saying to pray about anything at anytime. Since we are instructed to pray as we go about our daily lives, there are a number of situations where praying with open eyes is necessary/beneficial. Here are just a few examples of times I have personally experienced:-

I often talk to God when I'm driving and if I were to close my eyes when doing so, it would obviously endanger both my life and others. Also, if I'm standing in line for something it is necessary for my eyes to be open so I can move forward if necessary. Similarly, if I'm praying through a list of prayer requests then I need to have my eyes open so I can see who I'm meant to be praying for. Another example is journalling. Occassionally, I'll actually write down prayers in my journal to Christ. Again, I wouldn't be able to do this if my eyes were closed.

However, I find if I am praying in a group it is often helpful for me to close my eyes (or at least lower them) so that I can focus on the prayers of others.

I'd like to leave you with one of the most commonly quoted passages about prayer.

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 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 6:5-8).

Prayer is a personal thing between you and God. Concequently, I believe that the exact manner people pray is also between them and God. The exact manner isn't specified in the Bible... Some people may like to kneel, some people may turn out the lights, some people may look up towards the sky while others may pray silently within thier heads. Different people communicate with their saviour in different ways but the most important thing is that communication is occuring. As such, I don't believe the issue is about "how" we pray but rather to "whom" we are praying.

I hope this helps. I've typed it pretty quickly so hope it's not hard to follow.

Your sister in Christ,
Little Princess

xspinningisfun · 12-21-2009, 05:53 PM

Praying is just a way of talking to God. I don't keep my eyes closed. I just don't like to. I don't feel that God is telling me that it's bad. I mean, he WANTS us to pray. He doesn't care how we do it. (Well, he does want us to be respectful...so don't be like, "Yo, God!" or whatever).

I think that in group prayers, we should pray how we're comfortable in praying. For me, though, when I open my eyes, I"m distracted. And God doesn't want that. When we pray, he wants us to be totally focused on Him. So I try to close my eyes in group prayers (but sometimes fail!). And when it's only me and God, i keep my eyes open.

I don't think either way is wrong. Unless you get distracted while praying...that's wrong!

Preacher of KJV · 12-21-2009, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xspinningisfun

Praying is just a way of talking to God. I don't keep my eyes closed. I just don't like to. I don't feel that God is telling me that it's bad. I mean, he WANTS us to pray. He doesn't care how we do it. (Well, he does want us to be respectful...so don't be like, "Yo, God!" or whatever).

I think that in group prayers, we should pray how we're comfortable in praying. For me, though, when I open my eyes, I"m distracted. And God doesn't want that. When we pray, he wants us to be totally focused on Him. So I try to close my eyes in group prayers (but sometimes fail!). And when it's only me and God, i keep my eyes open.

I don't think either way is wrong. Unless you get distracted while praying...that's wrong!

I think distraction is the biggest thing. If there was a thank button, I would press it, nice post

AliveInHim · 12-22-2009, 09:33 PM

Probably about 99% of the time, I pray with my eyes open. I do not believe this is a sign of disrespect at all. There are no scriptures that state explicitly that one's eyes must be closed during prayer.

Many times it is a cultural issue or a personal issue. I believe that part of the belief comes from the desire for humility in prayer. Being humble before God is an important thing. We are lowly creatures. Do we dare even deserve to come to the throne of grace? Many believe in praying with the attitude that we are "not worthy to even speak to God" that we dare bring our lowly selves to the presence of God.

I am not saying there is anything wrong with being humble before God. However, there is a verse that states we are to come to the throne of grace with BOLDNESS. We shouldn't be ashamed that we are able to come to God. We should come knowing that we are forgiven children washed by the blood of Christ redeemed and sanctified and able to speak to the Almighty knowing that He will listen to us and knowing that we will get an answer -- even if it is the one we don't want to hear. Those are just promises of scripture.

Sometimes the "eyes closed" thing is just a practical matter. Some people are just way too easily distracted -- all of us have a tendency to do this. It is easier to be "less distracted" for some people with eyes closed. For me, in an odd way -- that's MORE distracting to have my eyes closed. I don't like closing my eyes. Don't ask me why. I cannot explain it.

In the Jewish faith, followers do not close their eyes when praying. In fact, it is the opposite. Usually, their eyes are open with their heads towards the heavens as if to look directly at God. This is a habit I actually have picked up myself. Some people wish to bow and focus inward as if to the God that lives in their hearts. There is NOTHING wrong with this. When I pray, I am actually kinda dramatic -- privately anyway. That is just something that is between me and God -- it's a wonderful thing! It works for me.

Another thing to consider, some people pray while doing other things -- like in their car. It isn't really a good idea to drive with your eyes closed.

A prayer is a personal thing. It's a conversation between you and God. It isn't between you and someone else and God. The way that you have that conversation is between you and God. No one has a right to come and give you rules about how to talk to your best friend on the phone. You may do it laying down -- standing up -- walking around. Is the way we converse with our Lord any different? It really shouldn't be. We should be comfortable, open to talk and open to listen. We should just be ourselves. If having your eyes closed helps you, do it. If it doesn't, don't do it.

Amanda

JesusPrincess · 12-23-2009, 03:32 PM

It's fine either way. I mean, God really isn't gonna care if you close your eyes or not. I think it's done as a manners thing really, to show respect to other people or something. But either ways' fine.

dreamergirl818 · 12-23-2009, 04:45 PM

I agree with waht others have said, I don't think the Bible says anything about open or shut eyes. I usually like to close my eyes in prayer, because for me, doing so helps me to concentrate. But then, there are the many time when I really needed to talk to God but couldn't close my eyes-- like when I'm running (that would be a little dangerous) or when I'm driving (man, that would be DEADLY!!). So yeah, that's my take on it. I think it's best to close your eyes when you can, just to keep from being distracted, but really, it's up to you.

To God be all glory!
Elizabeth

Preacher of KJV · 12-23-2009, 09:06 PM

I just wanted to say that when I'm talking about praying with your eyes open/closed I mean your alone time with God, like in church or when you wake up or go to bed. Not during the day because there's obviously times when you can't (as you have all stated). I should have been more specific

I agree with Elizabeth though, as I keep my eyes closed to help me concentrate.

Do we all at least agree heads should be bowed though? It'd make it a little freaky come invitation time if someone had their eyes open and head up (again, only during church/prayer time at home, not during the day).

xspinningisfun · 12-24-2009, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Do we all at least agree heads should be bowed though? It'd make it a little freaky come invitation time if someone had their eyes open and head up (again, only during church/prayer time at home, not during the day).

Yeah, I usually keep my head bowed.

. But sometimes I don't. but usually I do

12-20-2009, 09:18 PM	#1
Preacher of KJV Preacher of KJV Edit Evangelist/Missionary	Pray with your eyes open/closed? Is it ok to pray with your eyes open? I always prayed with my eyes closed but someone told me they prayed with their eyes open because they didn't like closing their eyes and there is nothing in the Bible against leaving them open during this time....I think they should be closed out of respect, but I don't really know. Can someone provide answers? lol
Status: Offline

12-21-2009, 10:52 AM	#2
Zipster Zipster Edit Whatever the Cost.	The Bible says very little about what to do when you pray; the clearest teaching on prayer is found in the gospels in Matthew 6 and in The Lord's Prayer - though, certainly other passages contribute, they do not seem as important as those two. Even with those other passages considered, we do not see a list of things that must be done when praying, but you see a variety of examples of things people do throughout scripture. This leads me to say that how you pray is a personal thing. The thing is that prayer is a bridge between you and God; it is the primary way of communication and it doesn't have to be in the least bit formal. There are some that would insist that praying should be done a certain way - however, such is contrary to the example set by scripture. If you feel comfortable with your eyes closed - and see that as an act of reverence and respect, then by all means close your eyes: but, the thing is not to push your manner of prayer onto others as the way to pray. I know some cultures pray with their face to the sky, because they want God to see their face when they pray. Other people prefer to be on their knees in prayer, signifying their submission and worship of Him. Some people fold their hands, while others raise their hands to God. Some prefer to pray in the Spirit, and others prefer to pray silently. As it is, I do not know anyone who does these things every time they pray; Scripture says that we are to "pray without ceasing." No one walks around with their hands in the sky, their eyes closed, crawling on their knees, or with their faces pointed to the sky all day. Pray as you see fit to pray. God is well aware of what's in your heart as you pray; he's aware if you're doing anything out of traditional formality, or if it's being done sincerely. We've all heard it said that you can pray anywhere. I think an important part of growing closer to God is acknowledging that prayer isn't always a formal thing that needs to be done - though, there are certainly times for formality. Just go to God as you are, when you are. You can sit, stand, run, lay, kneel, or whatever. I often pray as I lay in bed at night, and when I'm at work - always asking God for his grace. I will pray when I'm just sitting around, and sometimes it's as if I'm just having a normal conversation in the same way I would with anyone else - just sitting there casually and talking. So, pray as you wish to pray; just be sincere. __________________ It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of The Living God
Status: Offline

12-21-2009, 04:24 PM	#3
Little princess Little princess had the most amazing few weeks Edit Disciple	As far as I can tell, there is no specific instruction about whether or not people should pray with thier eyes open and closed. As such, I personally believe that it is okay to do either, depending on the situation. We are told to: "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 [emphysis mine]). In other words, I feel that God is saying to pray about anything at anytime. Since we are instructed to pray as we go about our daily lives, there are a number of situations where praying with open eyes is necessary/beneficial. Here are just a few examples of times I have personally experienced:- I often talk to God when I'm driving and if I were to close my eyes when doing so, it would obviously endanger both my life and others. Also, if I'm standing in line for something it is necessary for my eyes to be open so I can move forward if necessary. Similarly, if I'm praying through a list of prayer requests then I need to have my eyes open so I can see who I'm meant to be praying for. Another example is journalling. Occassionally, I'll actually write down prayers in my journal to Christ. Again, I wouldn't be able to do this if my eyes were closed. However, I find if I am praying in a group it is often helpful for me to close my eyes (or at least lower them) so that I can focus on the prayers of others. I'd like to leave you with one of the most commonly quoted passages about prayer. "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 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 6:5-8). Prayer is a personal thing between you and God. Concequently, I believe that the exact manner people pray is also between them and God. The exact manner isn't specified in the Bible... Some people may like to kneel, some people may turn out the lights, some people may look up towards the sky while others may pray silently within thier heads. Different people communicate with their saviour in different ways but the most important thing is that communication is occuring. As such, I don't believe the issue is about "how" we pray but rather to "whom" we are praying. I hope this helps. I've typed it pretty quickly so hope it's not hard to follow. Your sister in Christ, Little Princess __________________ Lord, I pray for the person reading this signature. I don't know what is happening in their life right now, but you do. And I pray that you will be with them through pain, sunshine, heartache, loss and joy. Hold them close and never let them go. Amen "Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful"
Status: Offline

12-21-2009, 05:53 PM	#4
xspinningisfun xspinningisfun thank You Jesus! you are surely alive! Edit Prophet/Prophetess	Praying is just a way of talking to God. I don't keep my eyes closed. I just don't like to. I don't feel that God is telling me that it's bad. I mean, he WANTS us to pray. He doesn't care how we do it. (Well, he does want us to be respectful...so don't be like, "Yo, God!" or whatever). I think that in group prayers, we should pray how we're comfortable in praying. For me, though, when I open my eyes, I"m distracted. And God doesn't want that. When we pray, he wants us to be totally focused on Him. So I try to close my eyes in group prayers (but sometimes fail!). And when it's only me and God, i keep my eyes open. I don't think either way is wrong. Unless you get distracted while praying...that's wrong! __________________ "Look, a dry puddle!" Facebook - Ask for it! www.xanga.com/shineyourlight_x
Status: Offline

12-22-2009, 09:33 PM	#6
AliveInHim AliveInHim is loving married life. :) Edit SuperManda	Probably about 99% of the time, I pray with my eyes open. I do not believe this is a sign of disrespect at all. There are no scriptures that state explicitly that one's eyes must be closed during prayer. Many times it is a cultural issue or a personal issue. I believe that part of the belief comes from the desire for humility in prayer. Being humble before God is an important thing. We are lowly creatures. Do we dare even deserve to come to the throne of grace? Many believe in praying with the attitude that we are "not worthy to even speak to God" that we dare bring our lowly selves to the presence of God. I am not saying there is anything wrong with being humble before God. However, there is a verse that states we are to come to the throne of grace with BOLDNESS. We shouldn't be ashamed that we are able to come to God. We should come knowing that we are forgiven children washed by the blood of Christ redeemed and sanctified and able to speak to the Almighty knowing that He will listen to us and knowing that we will get an answer -- even if it is the one we don't want to hear. Those are just promises of scripture. Sometimes the "eyes closed" thing is just a practical matter. Some people are just way too easily distracted -- all of us have a tendency to do this. It is easier to be "less distracted" for some people with eyes closed. For me, in an odd way -- that's MORE distracting to have my eyes closed. I don't like closing my eyes. Don't ask me why. I cannot explain it. In the Jewish faith, followers do not close their eyes when praying. In fact, it is the opposite. Usually, their eyes are open with their heads towards the heavens as if to look directly at God. This is a habit I actually have picked up myself. Some people wish to bow and focus inward as if to the God that lives in their hearts. There is NOTHING wrong with this. When I pray, I am actually kinda dramatic -- privately anyway. That is just something that is between me and God -- it's a wonderful thing! It works for me. Another thing to consider, some people pray while doing other things -- like in their car. It isn't really a good idea to drive with your eyes closed. A prayer is a personal thing. It's a conversation between you and God. It isn't between you and someone else and God. The way that you have that conversation is between you and God. No one has a right to come and give you rules about how to talk to your best friend on the phone. You may do it laying down -- standing up -- walking around. Is the way we converse with our Lord any different? It really shouldn't be. We should be comfortable, open to talk and open to listen. We should just be ourselves. If having your eyes closed helps you, do it. If it doesn't, don't do it. Amanda __________________ Mercy is not getting the bad you deserve for the bad you have done. Grace is not getting the bad you deserve for the bad you have done, And getting the good you don't deserve for the good you have NEVER done. http://redletteredition.revelife.com/
Status: Offline

12-23-2009, 03:32 PM	#7
JesusPrincess JesusPrincess "..the spirit of childhood is a life I never had and will always dream of." - MJ Edit Evangelist/Missionary	It's fine either way. I mean, God really isn't gonna care if you close your eyes or not. I think it's done as a manners thing really, to show respect to other people or something. But either ways' fine. __________________ *You* Are Not Alone I Am Here With You
Status: Offline

12-23-2009, 04:45 PM	#8
dreamergirl818 dreamergirl818 is going to be 18!!!!! yay! Edit Child of the KING	I agree with waht others have said, I don't think the Bible says anything about open or shut eyes. I usually like to close my eyes in prayer, because for me, doing so helps me to concentrate. But then, there are the many time when I really needed to talk to God but couldn't close my eyes-- like when I'm running (that would be a little dangerous) or when I'm driving (man, that would be DEADLY!!). So yeah, that's my take on it. I think it's best to close your eyes when you can, just to keep from being distracted, but really, it's up to you. To God be all glory! Elizabeth __________________ Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32
Status: Offline

12-23-2009, 09:06 PM	#9
Preacher of KJV Preacher of KJV Edit Evangelist/Missionary	I just wanted to say that when I'm talking about praying with your eyes open/closed I mean your alone time with God, like in church or when you wake up or go to bed. Not during the day because there's obviously times when you can't (as you have all stated). I should have been more specific I agree with Elizabeth though, as I keep my eyes closed to help me concentrate. Do we all at least agree heads should be bowed though? It'd make it a little freaky come invitation time if someone had their eyes open and head up (again, only during church/prayer time at home, not during the day).
Status: Offline