Matthew 6 v. 9-13:
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen
How many times you heard this prayer recited by heart? Perhaps if you are of the older generation you remember learning it in school? Or maybe you learned it in Sunday School or bible class? Sadly, many youngsters have never heard it at all. Yet the question is, have you ever really thought about the words and the sentiment behind it? I would like to suggest that you learn it and regularly pray it. Perhaps on your own or with your spouse and children or even in a group setting.
Why? It’s a prayer the Lord Jesus taught His disciples. It begins with God - and that is where we should begin. “Our Father” - Do you know God in that way? He is in heaven, Holy - a King with a kingdom.
It teaches is to pray for heavens will to be done on earth. Not politicians will nor even your own! It teaches us to rely on God each day for things spiritual and practical. Critically it teaches us to seek God’s forgiveness for sin and in return show God’s love towards others.
Now here is a part that we could never pray too often - “lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.” How many heart aches could be avoided by prayer and an awareness of this.
Finally, it reminds us of whose Kingdom and glory we should be seeking after.
It begins and ends with God. I invite you to learn these words, really think about them and pray them regularly.
Love and blessings- Pastor John