Give us today our daily bread. Matthew 6:11
While the first portion of the Lord’s prayer was solely God focused, we now begin to acknowledge our own needs. Jesus, as always, packs so much in each simple line.
Give – This is a humble request. We are to acknowledge that God is the giver and we are utterly dependent on Him. Whether He provides for us with gifted resources or provides the health and abilities to obtain them, it is all from Him.
Us (and our) - this takes us back to community. He gives us – not just me – all we need. Sometimes He provides for you through what He has given me and vice versa. We have all we need and if we are living as citizens of the Kingdom, justice ensures the care of all.
Today – God provides today’s needs. He’s never late but doesn’t front load us with tomorrow’s resources either. Our faith muscle is built in the necessity to live in the right now.
Daily Bread – the word epiousion, that is translated as daily, appears only twice in the Bible – in the two accounts of the Lord’s Prayer. There is debate about its actual meaning since it isn’t found in other literature that could be used as context. The breakdown of the roots in the word epi-ousios, literally super-essential, suggests its meaning is closer to necessary or needed.
God gives us today what is essential for us. And only He knows what that is. When I ask Him to give me today my epiosion bread, I trust He will provide for physical needs. But there is nothing more essential than God Himself. This reminds me to seek, asking God, for His Presence as well, something He promises to all who call on Him.
Jehovah Jireh, give us today what is essential for today. We know You are the Provider and all things come from You and we are grateful.
Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Matthew 6:25-26
Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Matthew 6:34
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