“Vain Repetitions”
Matthew 6:7
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
President Dallin H. Oaks said:
“We do not advocate flowery and wordy prayers. We do not wish to be among those who ‘pray to be heard of men, and to be praised for their wisdom’ (Alma 38:13). We wish to follow the Savior’s teaching, ‘When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking’ [Matthew 6:7; see also 3 Nephi 13:7]. Our prayers should be simple, direct, and sincere.”
(“The Language of Prayer,” Ensign, May 1993, 17.)