"And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly." Matthew 6:5,6
In Jesus' teaching of the 'Model Prayer' He warned of making a spectacle of yourself, but instead to be meek and humble. We don't have to say an elaborate prayer using big words with long, lengthy petitions. We are to pray what is in our heart. We are to praise Him with thanksgiving.
He knows what we are going to say before we even form the words because of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us (Rom. 8:27).
God knows what we are going through; decisions we have to make; struggles we are living through; and situations we are facing. He knows your concerns, your hurt, your pain and what troubles you (1 John 3:20).
He knows your celebrations, your happiness and your thankfulness. He knows all before you do...but talk to Him anyway! He wants to hear your voice! He wants to hear you call out His name (Job 27:10).
Our Lord desires for us to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:16-18).
Jesus wanted to show His disciples how to pray using the 'Model Prayer', also known as 'The Lord's Prayer' (Matt. 6:9-13). They questioned Him on this daily, just as we do today.
We can so often return to this prayer to ground us; bring us back to the basics. It gives me guidance and emotion when I pray, not just reciting it to Him but applying it to my daily life. In my quiet time as I speak the words it moves me in my prayer time.
We can use it to prepare our hearts and minds as we sit and talk with Him.
*It gives us clarity; a pure heart and motive. (Matt. 6:5-8)
*It is a private conversation; intent on being in His presence. (Matt. 6:6).
*It is meaningful and heartfelt communication with our Savior (Matt. 6:7,8).
*It humbly lays out our specific requests (Matt. 6:9-13).
We call on Him as our Father. We praise Him for all He is. We ask for forgiveness and thank Him for what He has done and will do in our lives. We ask for His guidance and to keep us from evil...and always we pray, "His will be done" (Matt. 6:10).
I recite this prayer every so often to refresh my prayer life. To remind me of what is most important, which is praise. Praising our Lord is essential to our daily life as Christians
(Ps. 147:1). It helps me to whittle down my lists of wants and come to a place of worship.
Girls, I hope this helps you in daily seeking our Savior through prayer. To have confidence in communicating with the One who made you. Find a quiet moment, or many moments in your day to talk with Him.
I love you & He loves you more!
Lord, Thank You for open access between You and Your children. I find myself in constant communication with You throughout my day and am so grateful I know You are listening and You care. Thank You for knowing me more than I know myself, for Your guidance is perfect; Your love is complete. Amen.