We are told consistently throughout the Bible to pray, even to pray continuously. Have you ever been taught how to pray?
Jesus explained:
Matthew 6:8-13 (NASB)
8 “Therefore do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need, before you ask Him. 9 “Pray, then, in this way:
‘Our Father who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy name.
10 ‘Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 ‘Give us this day our daily bread.
12 ‘And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 ‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
The intention is not to make this an incantation that you recite without feeling or personalization. It is a template, or what we call in computer-lingo today, a template, that is meant to be personalized. It can be as short or as long as you like, just make sure to touch on as many of the areas as you can.
In simple terms:
- Call his name (father, abba, daddy, etc)
- Give him glory for something you are thankful for
- Speak in your own words that you want His will done above your own (humbleness)
- Submit your request(s) or need(s)
- Thank Him for his graciousness in saving you
- Ask Him to keep you from temptation
- Ask him to keep you away from situations that are not centered on Him
- End by giving Him glory and praise
The prayer can be as long or short, simple or complex as you like. There are no rules other than to follow the outline Jesus gave when you are learning to pray. As you mature in your prayer life, these principles will be automatic.
I pray, MARANATHA! (Come, Lord Jesus!)
