Matthew 6:7 “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. [8] Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

[9] Pray then like this:

“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 also have forgiven our debtors.

[13] And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

[14] For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, [15] but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Jesus provided a prayer to be prayed on its own and as pattern for other prayers we pray.

What do the opening words teach us about God?

•   “Our Father”

•   “In Heaven”

How does this understanding help us to pray?

•   Pray with confidence

•   Pray with affection

•   Pray with reverence

•   Pray with and for others