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Coaches often teach athletes by modeling. A basketball coach will demonstrate how to hold and dribble the ball. He will also show the proper foot work for defensive positioning and rebounding. In baseball, the coach will show young pitchers the grip and arm motion for various pitches. Jesus is also a coach. He gave us the model for prayer. Found in Matthew 6:9-13, we usually call it the Lord’s Prayer, but it is a demonstration of what prayer is and how to do it.
It begins, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (KJV) Jesus shows us to approach God as a father. One who is special and holy. We also approach him by expressing our submission to his will.
Then, Jesus teaches us to express our dependence and ask God to provide for our physical and spiritual needs. He does this in verses 11-13, “Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” (KJV) We depend on God for our very food. We should also seek his forgiveness, as well as deliverance from evil.
Jesus’ demonstration ends by acknowledging God deserves to rule in our lives. Verse 13 ends with these words, “For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.” (KJV)
Today, follow Jesus’ model in prayer!