THE MODEL PRAYER

It is most often referred to as the 'Lord's Prayer' but Jesus never actually prayed it Himself (He had no need to seek forgiveness). It might better be titled 'The Disciple's Prayer' ... Christ was teaching His followers how to reverently approach the throne of God. 

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, forever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13

 

This was 'polar-opposite' to the self-righteous prayers they heard from the lips of the Pharisees ... God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice a week, and I give tithes of all that I possess. (Luke 18:11-12)

The Lord's Prayer was never intended to be repeated word for word as a ritualistic recitation. It was instead offered as a 'guide' or 'model'. Brief, devout, and full of meaning ... its first three petitions honor God, personal requests come second, and finally a recognition of His omnipotence.

Spurgeon - We pray as children to a Father, and we pray as brothers, for we say, “Our Father”, but the words “which art in heaven” suggest the reverence due him. Our Father and yet in heaven: in heaven and yet our Father. May his name be treated reverently and his gospel regarded with the deepest awe. It is for us so to walk before the Lord in lowliness, that all shall see that we reverence the character of the Holy One. Then we can truly pray ... “Hallowed be thy name”. 

In yesterday's devotional, we looked at 'praying in the Spirit'. I believe that the structure of Christ's 'model prayer' sets the perfect tone for that to take place. 

Nurture your prayer life, pilgrim ... for it is where you'll find strength in time of need, gain perspective in this fallen world, and experience the Lord's loving presence.