Matthew 6:8

8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

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Matthew 6:8 in Other Translations

King James Version (KJV)

8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

English Standard Version (ESV)

8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

New Living Translation (NLT)

8 Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!

The Message Bible (MSG)

8 Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need.

American Standard Version (ASV)

8 Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

GOD'S WORD Translation (GW)

8 Don't be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Holman Christian Standard Bible (CSB)

8 Don't be like them, because your Father knows the things you need before you ask Him.

New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

8 Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need even before you ask him.

Matthew 6:8 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 6:8

Be not ye therefore like unto them
. Do not be imitators of them, and follow their ways, who have only the dim light of nature to guide them; it would be shameful in you to do as they do, when you have a divine revelation for your direction; and especially, because

your Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask him;
and therefore have no need to make use of many words, or much speaking, or long prayers. The omniscience of God is a considerable argument, and a great encouragement to prayer; he knows our persons and our wants before hand; and as he is able to help us, we have reason to believe he will; especially since he stands in the relation of a Father to us.

Taken from John Gill's Exposition of the Bible

Matthew 6:8 In-Context

6 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.

7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.

8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.