In the first eight verses of Matthew 6, Jesus continues to give instructions on how our righteousness should exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 5:20). He warns us to avoid practicing our righteousness so people can see how good we are, and He gives specific instructions about how not to give or pray. Then we come to this teaching on how to pray.
“Pray then like this: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’” - Matthew 6:9-13 ESV
While these verses are commonly called the Lord’s Prayer, I think a better name would be Jesus’ Teaching About Prayer. Jesus didn’t intend us to simply repeat these words over and over, but to use the different components as guides for what we should include in our prayers. We also see this in Luke 11, where Jesus uses very similar words in response to the disciples’ request: “Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1-4)
We’re going to spend some time looking at the different prayer components found in Jesus’ teaching, starting verse 9.
"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” - Matthew 6:9b ESV
I love that Jesus starts with praise. This is a part that I sometimes neglect or rush through, but when I take the time to reflect on my Father’s attributes, His holiness in particular, I find it time very well-spent. God’s love and mercy always seem so much deeper and awe-inspiring to me when I ponder His holiness. I know how often and how far I fall short, but He still loves me and forgives me. My Father in heaven makes a way for me to approach His holiness and live through His precious son Jesus.
I am humbled, amazed, encouraged, and oh so joyful. I want to praise Him with all I am and all I do.
Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD, exulting in his salvation. - Psalm 35:9 ESV
Think About: How will you praise God today?
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