The Lord’s Prayer
by Darla Noble
Matthew 6:9-11
Pray like this: “Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.”
Today’s verses are Jesus’ words to us — words that instruct us how to pray and what to pray for.
These words contain no “if’s” or “maybe’s.” There is not the slightest hint of doubt that God is holy, that He is the master of the universe, and that He is the source of all our needs and wants.
The prayer, known as “The Lord’s Prayer,” is recorded twice in Scripture: once in Matthew 6:9-13 and again in Luke 11:2-4. Though the two instances differ slightly (Luke’s version is a bit shorter), for the most part, they are in agreement.
When we pray this way, giving honor to God, asking for His guidance and protection, and asking for divine forgiveness while at the same time reflecting God’s love to those with whom we come in contact, we can rest assured that our needs will be met, that we will feel God’s presence working in our lives, and that we will radiate the light and truth of His love to those around us.
Reflection
What are some of my daily needs? I will ask God for them today with confidence that He will provide according to His will.
Prayer
Dear God in heaven, I praise Your holy name. Please make me a permanent part of Your kingdom. May I always live and work within Your will for my life. Please prepare me on earth for an eternity in heaven. Please provide for my needs, as I learn to rely fully on You. All power and glory is Yours, now and forever. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
