How to Pray

After presenting the Beatitudes and similitudes, Jesus shared one of the most well known parts of the Bible - the Lord's prayer found in Matthew 6:9-13. Actually, it is to be our prayer. Unfortunately, many people only use this prayer as a mantra rather than a guide. In it we find a great description of what God offers and what we should desire. There are four areas to be incorporated into our lives.

First, we must recognize and invite God's control. Jesus told us to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. For this to happen involves surrender of our wants and wishes to his plans. Secondly, we are to demonstrate dependance on his care as we pray, "Give us this day our daily bread." Then we are to seek his cleansing by askng him to "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." This not only keeps our relationship with him vibrant, but also maintains our relationships with others. Finally, we must recognize that he carries us along in our daily lives. From him we ask for direction that will "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one."

The basis for such prayers is summed up in the conclusion of the prayer, "For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever." Because He owns everything he can give us those things we need in our relationship with himself. Because He is all-powerful He can enable us to live for him in all our circumstances. And because He is God the glory belongs to him.