+DEV+ Our Father

Date: August 24, 2011
Topic: +DEV+ Our Father

Our Father

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (MARK 7:7)
“This, then, is how you should pray." (MATTHEW 6:9)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:9-13

Jesus taught His own prayer to His disciples. An example of how we also should pray, it is a perfect prayer. Often I have repeated its words without thinking about the power behind them. In the countless ways that we can come to the Lord in prayer, many people like to begin with the confession of sins. When I start thinking about my sins, however, I quickly become distracted. Rather than dwelling on the Lord, I think all about myself.

Beginning the way Jesus began helps me focus on Him. "Our Father,” this first phrase emphasizes our relationship with God. He is our Father, and we are His children, the sons and daughters of the Living God. Jesus is God's Son, which means He is our brother. We have an intimate relationship with the almighty God of the universe. Knowing that ought to encourage us when we are discouraged and show us how precious we are when we feel worthless. God is always with us when we feel abandoned, and His love for us abounds even when we feel unlovable.

Insight: Because of Jesus' sacrifice we are members of God's family, if we believe Him. Remember to thank Him for that in your prayers.