John Wesley emphasizes the importance of sincerity in giving, praying, and fasting, urging believers to perform these acts not for the praise of men but for the glory of God. He explains that true acts of mercy and piety must stem from a pure intention, as God rewards those who serve Him in secret. Wesley highlights the Lord's Prayer as a model for prayer, encompassing all that we need and reflecting our dependence on God. He stresses the necessity of forgiveness, both in receiving it from God and extending it to others, as a condition for our own forgiveness. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a heart aligned with God's will, seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes that true righteousness in religious duties should not be performed for public display, as highlighted in Matthew 6:1-8. He warns against the temptation to present a false image of piety, akin to a stage actor, and stresses the importance of sincerity in almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. Meyer shares a poignant reflection from a Burman convert who felt the weight of these teachings, contrasting the noisy displays of pagan worship with the quiet reverence that true faith demands. The sermon calls for introspection and authenticity in one's relationship with God.

R.A. Torrey continues his exposition of the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the principles of giving, praying, and fasting. He emphasizes that acts of righteousness should be done in secret to please God rather than to gain human approval, highlighting the importance of a sincere heart in all spiritual practices. Torrey explains that prayer should be directed to the Father, avoiding vain repetitions, and should prioritize God's glory and will. He also discusses the significance of fasting, urging believers to seek God's presence rather than public recognition. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a genuine relationship with God, marked by humility, sincerity, and a focus on His kingdom.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the essence of prayer is not found in eloquent words but in the sincerity of the heart expressed through sighs and groans. He reassures those who feel inadequate in their prayer life that even the simplest expressions of a broken heart are pleasing to God. The sermon highlights that God values the authenticity and emotional depth of our prayers over their formality. Brooks encourages believers to pour out their souls to God, as true prayer comes from a place of genuine need and brokenness. Ultimately, it is the heart's cry that resonates with God, not the perfection of language.

Theodore Epp emphasizes the power of sincere prayer through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 18:30-39, contrasting his brief yet heartfelt prayer with the lengthy, ineffective cries of the prophets of Baal. Epp highlights that true prayer is not about loudness or physical displays but about the condition of the heart and the right motives behind our requests. Elijah's prayer was focused on honoring God, which led to a miraculous response as fire fell from heaven. This sermon encourages believers to examine their own prayer lives and ensure their motives align with God's purposes. Ultimately, Epp reminds us that God is a consuming fire, ready to respond to genuine faith.