Jesus is Essential
Luke 11:1–4: Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.”
True prayer also involves responsibilities: honoring God’s kingdom and doing God’s will. It has well been said that the purpose of prayer is not to get man’s will done in heaven, but to get God’s will done on earth. Prayer is not telling God what we want and then selfishly enjoying it.
Prayer is asking God to use us to accomplish what He wants so that His name is glorified, His kingdom is extended and strengthened, and His will is done. I must test all of my personal requests by these overruling concerns if I expect God to hear and answer my prayers. 1
Walking with Jesus
If prayer is one of the most powerful resources we have to communicate on any day and at anytime with the Creator of the universe, why do we willingly ignore such a wonderful privilege, in order to watch more TV, or engage endlessly with our phone?
If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. John 15:7
Prayer is asking for grace to surrender myself to do the will of my King.
Praying
Lord, thank You for listening to everything I say, even though You know my needs.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
