The Daily Devotional
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Lord, Teach Us to Pray
[Jesus] said to them, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial.” (Luke 11:2-4)
Introduction
The disciples had walked with Jesus, listened to His teachings, and witnessed His miracles. Yet, when they approached Him, their request was simple: “Lord, teach us to pray.” In response, Jesus gave them a model—words that have become the foundation of Christian prayer, known as the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer is more than a set of words; it is a guide that aligns our hearts with God’s will.
Reflection
A young boy sat beside his grandfather on the porch, watching the sun set over the fields. “Grandpa, I don’t know how to pray,” the boy admitted. The grandfather smiled and said, “Prayer isn’t about fancy words; it’s about speaking to God like a child to his father.” He then recited the Lord’s Prayer, line by line, explaining each phrase.
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name” reminds us that we approach a holy and loving God.
“Your kingdom come” is a call to surrender our lives to His reign.
“Give us this day our daily bread” expresses our dependence on Him.
“Forgive us our sins, as we forgive others” speaks to grace and reconciliation.
“Lead us not into temptation” is a plea for spiritual strength.
That evening, as the boy knelt by his bed, he whispered the Lord’s Prayer, knowing that his Heavenly Father was listening.
Application
The Lord’s Prayer is not just a rote repetition but a blueprint for our daily walk with God. It teaches us to:
1. Worship God – Begin by recognizing His holiness and majesty.
2. Submit to His Will – Align our desires with His kingdom’s work.
3. Trust in His Provision – Depend on Him for our needs.
4. Seek Forgiveness – Extend the same grace we receive.
5. Rely on His Guidance – Ask for strength against temptation.
Consider setting aside time today to pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly, pausing after each phrase to meditate on its meaning. Let it shape your relationship with God.
Conclusion
The Lord’s Prayer is more than words—it is a way of life. Jesus gave it as an invitation to deeper communion with the Father. As we pray it daily, may it transform our hearts, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us how to pray. Help us to approach You with reverence and trust, seeking Your will above our own. Provide for our needs, forgive our sins, and guide us in righteousness. Let this prayer not just be words on our lips but truth in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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