Begin with Praise – This is where true prayer begins.
Mat 6:9-13 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.
Too many times we begin our prayers with selfish request. Focusing too much on self.
Surrender – This is where we surrender to God’s will and purpose. To God’s agenda not ours. Now hopefully we have been living a life that follows this. If not there needs to be a radical change so we can pray the rest.
(10) Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.
Petition – Here is where we ask God for the provision to make it through the day. This maybe food or necessities. This maybe peace. This maybe healing. It is what we need to make it through the day.
Some people wake up in the morning and say (some with depression and discouragement) "Lord, just help me make it through the day,"
(11) Give us this day our daily bread.
Acceptance – If we are asking God’s forgiveness and receiving it we must also offer it to others. Debts is the key here.
(12) And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
When we are hurt by someone we feel as if they "owe" us something. Maybe an apology or an acceptance of wrong doing. Whatever the case they are in debt to us. So we forgive them their debts as God has forgiven us so much more.
Protection – recognizing that God is our protector.
(13) And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.
We are asking God to lead me not into places that I will be tempted. This may mean God says no to our request. He "closes doors". We may not understand this but we trust Him,
End with Praise
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
