אות - עב

You may be influenced by false motives and distracted by many outside thoughts when you pray. Ignore them completely (see “ His Wisdom ” #12, #26; Tzaddik #590) . Do your part and say all the prayers in order, ignoring all disturbing thoughts. Do what you must, and disregard these thoughts completely.

The Rebbe also said that these disturbing thoughts actually benefit our prayers. Without distracting thoughts, prayer would be impossible. Tremendous powers are always at work, attempting to denounce proper prayers.

But distracting thoughts serve to disguise our prayers so that they are ignored by the Outside Forces. Then these forces do not denounce the prayers, and they are allowed to enter on high.

God knows the real truth. We may have improper motives or be distracted, but in the very depth of our heart, our intent is to God. God knows this.

G-d sees this innermost desire. He sees through the outside and accepts the prayer in love.

It is written, “Many thoughts are in a man’s heart, but God’s counsel is what stands” (Proverbs 19:21) .

“Many thoughts are in a man’s heart”: When he prays, he is distracted by many outside thoughts.

“But God’s counsel is what stands”: There is an innermost point in your heart. Here your thoughts are directed to God alone. This innermost point is called “God’s counsel.” Within this point, one’s intent is to God alone.

“God’s counsel is what stands.” So disregard all distractions and recite your prayers in their order.