MEMORISE: And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. – Matthew 6:5
BIBLE READING: Matthew 6:9-13
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 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.
MESSAGE:
While He was on the earth, Jesus knew the importance of prayer; He prayed often and also taught His disciples how to pray in today’s Bible reading. Your prayers to God should consist of the following components: honouring Him, seeking His will, requesting daily provision, asking for forgiveness, and requesting protection from evil.
My dear child, when you say, “Our Father who art in heaven,” you acknowledge the privilege of calling God, the One who loves you unconditionally, your Father. As you continue to pray, saying, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” you surrender your desires to God’s perfect will, trusting His plans for your life. When you ask, “Give us this day our daily bread,” you express your dependence on God for physical and spiritual sustenance. As you forgive those who trespass against you, you express the freedom that comes from releasing grudges and embracing forgiveness. Finally, as you pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil,” you seek God’s guidance and protection in the face of trials and temptations.
My beloved child, you will enjoy tremendous blessings from your heavenly Father if you follow the pattern of prayer that Jesus taught.
KEY POINT:
The Lord’s Prayer is not a mere recitation but a heartfelt dialogue with your heavenly Father.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
Nehemiah 9:22-10:39; 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13