Sincere Connection with the Divine
In this case, the meaning of the verse (in the context of the surrounding verses) can be interpreted as follows: when communicating with God, there is no need to resort to unnecessary verbosity or showy appearances, because God already knows our true needs and desires. It is a call for sincerity and restraint in prayer, where the most important factor is not the external form but the inner state of a heart open to God. In other words, the modern believer should focus on establishing deeply personal relationships with God, where words serve merely as a symbol of genuine communication, rather than as a means to attain visible rewards or recognition from others.Supporting citation(s):"Do not be like them: for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. When you pray, do not babble like the Gentiles; for they think that because of their many words they will be heard." (source: link txt)Additionally, the interpretation of Venerable Nikodim of the Holy Mountain emphasizes that the key point is to approach God with an open and humble heart, where external forms and rituals give way to a personal spiritual connection: "It is God who comes near to you; receive Him humbly with an open heart, for He Himself desires that you be united with Him. And if for this reason you must leave unfulfilled what is prescribed for this spiritual exercise (i.e., reading), do not worry about it. For the purpose of all spiritual exercises, including this one, is to be worthy of partaking in God..." (source: link txt)Thus, in modern practice, this means that instead of worrying about forms, rituals, or public acknowledgment, it is important to focus on sincere, personal communication with God, trusting that He already knows our needs.