SATURDAY March 14, 2020
Our Father in Heaven
“Therefore do not be like them [the hypocrites]. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.”
Matthew 6:8-9
Many people call this passage of Scripture “The Lord’s Prayer,” but this passage is rightly called the “Model Prayer.” John 17 is considered to be “The Lord’s Prayer.” Jesus taught His disciples to begin their prayers the right way. Prayer begins with relationship––God is our Abba––Father––Daddy. We stand before His presence as His sons and daughters (2 Corinthians 6:18).
Before you even pray and ask to God to help with your needs, He already knows them! He will never fail you or forget you! God created you in your mother’s womb; He knows you! You have earthly parents, but you have a heavenly Father. Before you pray for anything, you should begin your prayers by giving glory and honor to the name of God your Father. God is on the throne in heaven––holy. Recognize His holy name––Yahweh, “I Am that I Am,” the “all becoming One.”
Jesus is our Savior. His name means “God is salvation.” May we never use His name in vain––ever. One day at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).
People tend to pray selfishly––for their wants. Understand, in prayer, God will place unselfish needs on your heart. It is good to discern your selfish desires and truly recognize what God has placed on your heart. When your prayers are directed by the Spirit, you will pray in the Spirit according to the will of God. You will pray exactly for what God has directed you to pray for. God allows you to pray for your needs according to His will.
There is an inexpressible joy as I come to you in prayer my heavenly father.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!