Unlock the Power of PrayerSample

But how do we even pray? What do we say? Jesus taught his disciples exactly how they should pray. As we talk to God, let’s think about one of the most famous prayers in the Scriptures and learn from Jesus Himself.

Our Father which art in heaven.

This is about faith. Without this, our prayers are useless. We need to trust that we have a Father and that He's in heaven. That takes faith, and we need to begin every prayer with faith. Hebrews 11:6 says, "Without faith, it is impossible to please God."

Hallowed be thy name.

This is worship. Sometimes we just tell God all the things that we want out of life. Instead, let's start our prayers with, "I have faith in you, God, and I know that you are good." Psalm 29:2 tells us, "Give to the Lord the glory due unto His name." This is a great way to start your prayer.

Thy kingdom come.

This is a heart of expectation. We are allowed to expect that God is going to answer our prayers. That's the kind of relationship with Him that we have. When I was a child, I expected my parents to feed, clothe, protect, and provide for me. It's okay to expect that from our heavenly Father, who loves us much more than our earthly parents ever could.

Thy will be done.

This is submission. We're saying, "God, here are my requests. I expect that they'll be done, but I submit to your will." Even Jesus submitted to the will of the Father when He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Give us this day our daily bread.

This is a petition. Now, God knows our needs, but He wants us to ask. In fact, the Bible tells us to ask repeatedly. Don't give up, but keep asking. Jeremiah 29:12 says, "Then you call on me and come to pray, and I will listen to you." Don't you love all these promises God gives us in His word?

Forgive us our trespasses.

This is a confession, asking for forgiveness. That's an important part of prayer. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." It's beautiful to be intimate, open, and transparent with the Lord, even though He already knows. He desires to hear it from you.

Lead us not into temptation.

This is dependence. We are telling God that we need Him. We need Him to lead us; we need Him to guide us. Without Him, we will fail. Psalm 121:1-2 is such a beautiful verse that says, "Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and Earth."

Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever.

This is acknowledgment. This is a great way to end a prayer. Let's honor God and just praise His holy name as we end our prayer.

Today, as you have conversations with God, think about the Lord’s Prayer and how it can frame your prayer life.