Jesus gave us His life as an example of how to live in every area of life, but prayer is one of the rare instances where He actually said, do it like this.
When Jesus taught us to pray, He provided the words to say. And yet how often are they just words to me? Do I really mean it? Do I really understand what it is I’m saying?
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
I’m grateful that God listens to me regardless of the words I use or even if I fail to find words at all. I don’t need a formula to have Him hear me. But He also has given me direction to guide my heart, words that remind me who He is and my proper dependance on Him. I plan to pray these words daily, slowly and thoughtfully, for the next month. I’m anxious to see where He will guide me and what I will learn.
Lord, burn these words in my heart. Use them to teach me and bring me closer to you. Make my words more than just words.
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