The reason we pray is to bring glory to God (Jn 14:13) and obtain joy in God (Jn 17:13). That to pray by His will, this, in turn, brings us joy. Not by repetitive words, platitudes or complicated requests, but in simplicity, because the LORD knows what it is we need before we ask (Mt. 6:7-8).
When we end our prayers by “In Jesus’s name, Amen” that is an acknowledgment and affirmation that it is possible to pray to the Father because of the access we are given by the LORD’s sacrifice and resurrection. Since we have this gift of access, we are to pray continually, in private and with perseverance in a manner by which He taught us (Mt 6:9-13). Our persistence in prayer and pleas to Him is to meet our needs and carry out His will.
It is also by Jesus’s instruction that we are to pray by faith (Mk 11:22, 24). That is simply one condition by which we pray. Another is given in John 15:7 where He says, ” If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” To mean, we are to remain in Him, in fellowship, and in His words. To know Him where there is a relationship there to underlie our prayers to Him and the Father.
Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart. – Lk 18:1
In his guidance, He further explains how to pray and how not to pray. For whom we are to pray and for what we are to pray. Moreover, he gives us specifics and examples to learn from and apply.
Pray in truth without hypocrisy and with full confession (Matt 6:5-6). The LORD had some of the strongest words of condemnation for hypocritical people. So we are to pray for ourselves. Pray for everyone without exception. Even for our enemies and for those who insult and curse us (Lk 6:28).
And so finally, the LORD’S prayer is modeled for us to remember and put into practice. In the words of John Piper, here is the breakdown of how it goes.
Our Father in heaven,
1. Hallowed be your name.
This is to pray that all people would pursue the glory of God. The first function of prayer.
2. Your kingdom come.
That in our lives, His kingdom would reign in our hearts and minds.
3. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
That we put into effect His will here on Earth just as it is done in heaven. Without hesitation, in full zeal, and by exceptional effort.
4. Give us this day our daily bread.
To meet our daily physical needs for body and mind.
5. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
The continued requests for forgiveness of our daily failure to honor Him.
6. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
A request for the protection against the evil one and from temptations.
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