A lot of people wonder how to pray. The disciples of Jesus wondered that too. One day they asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. The answer that Jesus gave shows us important things to talk about when we are praying to God. Jesus’ answer also shows us important things we should be thinking about all through the day, not just when we are actually praying. The pattern that Jesus gave His disciples for prayer is called the Lord’s Prayer. You can find it in your own Bible in Matthew 6:9-13.

“Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 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: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever” (KJV).

Some of the things that we learn that are most important are: 1. Respect my Creator as my Father. 2. Desire His will on earth—from obeying God myself to helping others learn to obey Him everywhere. 3. God gets the glory in my life and others’ lives—always. 4. My Christianity is not a private matter. It affects other people and the world.

In what things in YOUR life can you apply these four statements in ways that will help you to grow in Christ?