HOST: Michael Whitworth
Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.”
There are many people who struggle with prayer. How should I pray? What should I pray for? What should my attitude be in prayer? These and many other questions have been asked by sincere children of God who want to deepen and improve their prayer life. The disciples of Jesus had similar desires and questions. They wanted to know how to pray like Jesus prayed, and in this “model prayer,” Jesus answered many of their, and our, concerns. In this short and simple prayer, Jesus showed them and us how to pray and what to pray for. How should we pray? Pray to your Father, understanding and appreciating the relationship you have with Him—“Father.” Pray with respect, reverence and praise, understanding the majesty, glory, and holiness of God—“Hallowed by Your name.” What should we pray for? Pray for the church—“Your kingdom come.” Pray for your earthly needs—“Give us each day our daily bread.” Pray for your spiritual needs—“Forgive us our sins.” Pray for God’s protection and deliverance—“And lead us not into temptation.” What a beautiful prayer, and what a wonderful model for us.
Why do you think people struggle with knowing how to pray?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!