John Gill Commentary Matthew 6:8

"Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." — Matthew 6:8 (ASV)

Be not you therefore like to 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 knows what things you have need of before you 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 beforehand; 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.