When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, He gave them a short but meaningful prayer. The Lord’s Prayer is prayed by millions of Christians around the world, and it can guide our personal prayers too.
God first
The prayer begins with God, not with us: “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9-10). We call Him “Father”, which shows closeness and trust, and we ask that His will be done in our lives as well.
Then our needs
Only then do we bring our needs: “Give us this day our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:11). We ask for today, not for the whole year, learning to trust God day by day. The prayer continues with forgiveness and protection from temptation, covering every part of life.
For reflection
Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly each day this week, pausing after each phrase and telling God in your own words what it means to you today.
Bible verses are quoted from the King James Version.