In our last visit we began studying the Disciple’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13. The focus of this portion is, Learning from the Disciple’s Prayer.
We started amplifying this focus by noting the prayer begins with worship: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” When we pray we are to respect and reverence the one we are addressing. But, if we have a personal relationship with Him through trusting in His Son, Jesus Christ, we are invited to come to Him as a child to their Father. Paul says that the Holy Spirit will prompt us to address Him as “Abba Father.” There is an intimacy there, as though you are resting in the embrace of God.
There is no room, however, for being trite or irreverent. In theological terms we have here in this worship section both the transcendence of God and His immanence. He is in heaven, over us, overseeing us, watching us. He is reaching out, inviting us to draw near and trust in Him as a caring, protecting, providing Father.
Take some time to let that sink in. When you go to prayer, take some time first to recognize this before you even open your mouth. When you do begin to pray, it would be good to start with worship, that is, to affirm the rich qualities of the one you are addressing. Let Him know how much you appreciate Him, how much you love Him.
Humble yourself before Him. He takes delight in those who do. He promises to lift up those who humble themselves. That’s a good place to start when you pray. I believe this is what Jesus was teaching His disciples, and what He wants us to know and practice.
