The Model Prayer

“Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). The disciples brought this request to Jesus after they had witnessed the countless times He went out to spend time with His Father. Likewise, this should be the heart cry of every child of God. Jesus’ response to the disciples’ request is found in Matthew 6:9–13:

“In this manner, therefore, pray:
‘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 forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.
Amen.'” (NKJV)

This model prayer, also called “The Lord’s Prayer,” covers every aspect of prayer. It can be divided into two parts. The first three components of the prayer deal with God’s glory: “Hallowed be Your name,” “Your Kingdom come,” and “Your will be done.”

The second three components of the model prayer deal with our need. “Give us this day our daily bread,” “Forgive us our debts,” and “Lead us not into temptation.”