A Masterpiece

A Masterpiece Matthew 6:9-13

Coach John Wooden died at the age of 99, he was renowned as one of the greatest college coaches of all times. When John graduated from the eighth grade, his dad couldn’t afford a gift, so he wrote John a 7-point creed, which he encouraged John to start applying daily. At his funeral three of the seven points that Coach Wooden lived by were talked about:1. Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible. 2. Make each day your masterpiece. 3. Pray for guidance, and give thanks for your blessings every day.

In what we often call the Lord’s prayer. Jesus taught us on things to say, pray and live by daily.

In this manner, therefore, pray:Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Of the 6 petitions from Matthew 6, 3 are directed to God, and 3 toward human need. This prayer lead by Jesus isn’t just a liturgy (form), it’s notable for its bravery, simplicity and comprehensiveness or completeness.

This prayer surly isn’t something to be said once or just to put to memory, but it’s anointed and illustrated by Jesus Himself!

Matthew 6:9NLT Pray like this:Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.

Jesus’ thoughts might have been on how the Pharisees’ righteousness was deficient by exposing their hypocrisy in the matters of charitable deeds, prayers and fasting. All of these deeds ought to give total praise and glory to Jesus not to each other.

Jesus said pray, verse 9TM Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are.

Jesus said throughout His gospels, whatever you see Him do, His Father does likewise; Me and the Father are one.

Jesus say’s, “Reveal Who You are.”

How much time do you have? Maybe instead of revealing who He is, let’s think about what He isn’t. He isn’t mad, He isn’t too high and mighty, He isn’t bad, He isn’t unholy Etc.

Verse 9 is saying, “Through it all give God praise.”

Matthew 6:10NLT May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.

God’s will being done on earth means believer’s finding His will in heaven. How He operates, His government and His perfect will.

Matthew 6:10TM Set the world right; Do what’s best—as above, so below.

Verse 10, Seek His Kingdom and HIs will. All prayers subject unto His purpose, plans and glory.

Matthew 6:11NLT Give us today the food we need,

Matthew 6:11TM Keep us alive with three square meals.

Trust Him for provision!

Matthew 6:12NLT and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.

Sinners become debtors to God for their violation of His law. Notice right after this prayer, Jesus talks more on this subject.

Matthew 6:14-15NLT “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Matthew 6:12TM Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.

Matthew 6:13aNLT And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.

Ask for Jesus’ forgiveness, power and deliverance!

Matthew 6:13aTM Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil. You’re in charge!

Through out Coach John Wooden’s life he was honored most of all for his character, his faith, and the many lives he touched.

Matthew 6:13bNLT And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.

We know throughout scripture that God doesn’t tempt us, however, Jesus is speaking more about attitude and humility here!

Benediction.