Eyes Wide Open or Shut? What to Do When You Pray
When you think of someone praying, what comes to mind? Hands folded, head bowed, and eyes closed, right? It’s an image many of us were taught as children—one that shows reverence, focus, and submission. But here’s a question that’s stirred up curiosity on Quora and beyond: Should we pray with our eyes closed or open?
Let’s explore.
Eyes Closed: The Traditional Posture
Closing our eyes during prayer is a practice rooted in reverence. It helps block out distractions and allows us to focus inwardly—aligning our hearts and minds with God. For many believers, this is the moment they shut out the world to connect with the Creator. It’s a physical expression of spiritual focus.
Scripture often highlights the posture of the heart over the posture of the body. While it doesn’t command us to close our eyes, many do so to symbolize humility and attention to God. In Matthew 6:6, Jesus says, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen…”—emphasizing solitude, not necessarily shut eyes.
Eyes Open: Looking for Connection
Now let’s flip the lens. Some believers keep their eyes open while praying, especially in corporate or public settings. This can symbolize alertness and watchfulness. In fact, Nehemiah 2:4 shows Nehemiah praying silently—likely with eyes wide open—as he speaks to King Artaxerxes. His quick, inward prayer was a silent moment of seeking God while remaining fully aware of his surroundings.
Additionally, in group prayer or when laying hands on someone, keeping eyes open may allow us to stay present, observe needs, and remain connected to others.
So… Which Is Right?
At Destiny Changers Christian Fellowship, we come from the Word. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over…” In other words, God responds to the measure of our sincerity—not whether our eyes are shut or open.
The true power of prayer is in your heart, your intent, and your faith. Whether your eyes are closed in deep solitude or open as you walk and talk with God, He hears you.
Come Experience the Presence for Yourself!
Want to deepen your understanding and strengthen your prayer life? Join us at Destiny Changers Christian Fellowship, where we explore these kinds of spiritual truths together.
We gather in person every 2nd and 4th Sunday, including Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day at:
? 700 E. 170th Street, South Holland, IL
? Doors open at 10:30 AM | Service starts at 11:15 AM
Can’t make it in person? You can still join us virtually in addition to all other Sundays on our YouTube channel – search @DCNationChicago.
No matter how you come—eyes closed, eyes open—just come. There’s a seat for you at Destiny Changers.
See you soon, DC Nation. ??
Let’s explore.
Eyes Closed: The Traditional Posture
Closing our eyes during prayer is a practice rooted in reverence. It helps block out distractions and allows us to focus inwardly—aligning our hearts and minds with God. For many believers, this is the moment they shut out the world to connect with the Creator. It’s a physical expression of spiritual focus.
Scripture often highlights the posture of the heart over the posture of the body. While it doesn’t command us to close our eyes, many do so to symbolize humility and attention to God. In Matthew 6:6, Jesus says, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen…”—emphasizing solitude, not necessarily shut eyes.
Eyes Open: Looking for Connection
Now let’s flip the lens. Some believers keep their eyes open while praying, especially in corporate or public settings. This can symbolize alertness and watchfulness. In fact, Nehemiah 2:4 shows Nehemiah praying silently—likely with eyes wide open—as he speaks to King Artaxerxes. His quick, inward prayer was a silent moment of seeking God while remaining fully aware of his surroundings.
Additionally, in group prayer or when laying hands on someone, keeping eyes open may allow us to stay present, observe needs, and remain connected to others.
So… Which Is Right?
At Destiny Changers Christian Fellowship, we come from the Word. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over…” In other words, God responds to the measure of our sincerity—not whether our eyes are shut or open.
The true power of prayer is in your heart, your intent, and your faith. Whether your eyes are closed in deep solitude or open as you walk and talk with God, He hears you.
Come Experience the Presence for Yourself!
Want to deepen your understanding and strengthen your prayer life? Join us at Destiny Changers Christian Fellowship, where we explore these kinds of spiritual truths together.
We gather in person every 2nd and 4th Sunday, including Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day at:
? 700 E. 170th Street, South Holland, IL
? Doors open at 10:30 AM | Service starts at 11:15 AM
Can’t make it in person? You can still join us virtually in addition to all other Sundays on our YouTube channel – search @DCNationChicago.
No matter how you come—eyes closed, eyes open—just come. There’s a seat for you at Destiny Changers.
See you soon, DC Nation. ??
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