The Model Prayer: Seeking God's Kingdom Series

"The Model Prayer: Seeking God's Kingdom"

Introduction:

Today, we delve into the profound words of Jesus found in Matthew 6:9-13, where He teaches us how to pray.

The Lord's Prayer is not just a set of words to be recited but a blueprint for approaching God in prayer and seeking His kingdom above all else.

Point 1: Our Father in Heaven

Scripture: Matthew 6:9a - "Pray like this: Our Father in heaven..."

Jesus starts this prayer by addressing God as "Our Father in heaven."

Illustration:

Think of a loving earthly father, always approachable and caring. Our Heavenly Father is infinitely more loving and approachable. We can come to Him in prayer with confidence, knowing He cares for us.

Point 2: Your Kingdom Come

Scripture: Matthew 6:10a - "May your Kingdom come soon..."

In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches us to prioritize God's kingdom above all else.

Illustration:

Imagine a country eagerly awaiting the arrival of a wise and just ruler. Similarly, we should eagerly desire the full establishment of God's kingdom on earth, where His will is done perfectly.

Point 3: Your Will Be Done

Scripture: Matthew 6:10b - "...May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven."

Jesus emphasizes the importance of aligning our will with God's will.

Illustration:

Think of a ship that navigates smoothly when it follows a well-planned course. When we align our will with God's, our lives move in harmony with His purpose, bringing peace and fulfilment.

Point 4: Daily Bread and Forgiveness

Scripture: Matthew 6:11-12 - "Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us."

Jesus teaches us to pray for our daily needs and for forgiveness.

Illustration:

Consider a loving parent who provides for their child's daily needs and forgives them when they make mistakes. God, our Father, graciously provides for us and forgives us when we seek His forgiveness and extend it to others.

Point 5: Deliver Us from Evil

Scripture: Matthew 6:13a - "And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one."

Jesus encourages us to seek protection from temptation and evil.

Illustration:

Think of a shepherd who protects his sheep from lurking dangers. God, our Good Shepherd, watches over us and helps us resist temptation and evil influences.

Conclusion:

The Lord's Prayer is a profound guide for our prayer life. It reminds us to approach God as our loving Father, to prioritize His kingdom, to align our will with His, to seek our daily needs, to seek forgiveness, and to ask for protection from evil.

As we pray this model prayer, we draw closer to God, aligning our hearts with His desires and seeking His kingdom above all else.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the precious gift of the Lord's Prayer. May Your kingdom come, and Your will be done in our lives and on earth as it is in heaven. Provide for our daily needs, forgive our sins, and protect us from temptation and evil. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.