Jesus Gave Us a Model for Our Prayers

The disciples wanted to learn to pray effectively and actually asked Jesus to teach them.  Luke 11:1  (You may be more familiar with the way it’s given in a parallel passage, Matt. 6:9-13.)  This becomes a model for our prayers.

We never out-grow the effectiveness of using the model. (When the model is repeatedly and merely recited as the prayer, it loses its impact and intended use.)

Jesus said, “This, then, is how you should pray…”

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name”  –  acknowledge who He is and give Him praise.

“Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth”  –  surrender to His Lordship, pray His will.

“Give us today our daily bread.”  –  lift up your needs and concerns to the Lord.

“Forgive us our debts as we forgive…” –  a clear conscience, reconciliation, unity are critical to prayer and worship and peace with God.

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one” –  pray to be an overcomer whatever the day may hold.

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever”  –  end your prayer with praise and acknowledging God for Who He is.

What is called the “Lord’s Prayer” was not given to us to be recited together repetitiously but rather to be used as a model for our heartfelt communion with our heavenly Father.