So pray this way:
Matthew 6:9 NET
Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored,
In contrast to the repetitious babbling of the Gentiles (Matt. 6:7), Jesus taught his disciples how they should pray. This was likely intended to be a model rather than a prayer to recite. But it has value whether you recite it or use it as a model.
This prayer begins with “Our Father.” While we can use this as a personal prayer, it is presented here as a corporate prayer. It is “Our Father” rather than “My Father.” This is a prayer that I share with my brothers and sisters in God’s family.
Our prayer is addressed to our Father in heaven. Father is the Greek word patēr, equivalent to the Aramaic abba. It is an intimate term of endearment used within a family. We pray to one with whom we have a special, personal, and intimate relationship.
He is our Father in heaven. “In heaven” expresses his majesty and glory. He is our Pater, Father, but he is also high above us. He is our creator, sustainer, and Lord. And he grants us to have a personal relationship with him. But we should never lose sight of who he is.
God’s name is more than just a tag we use to identify him. It represents who and what he is. To honor God’s name is to honor God. God’s name is worthy of honor. Pray that God would be honored in your own life. In the life of his church. And throughout the creation.
As you come to God in prayer, remember the privilege we have of coming before the throne of the majestic Lord of all creation as his dearly loved children. Be sure to spend time with your heavenly Father today and every day.
