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The Model Prayer (8)
The Power of Prayer
Introduction
In a sense, the Model Prayer ends up back where it began - with the Person of God. It also shows us what our highest motives for prayer should be.
Bible Reading
After this manner therefore pray ye: 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. Amen. (Mat 6:9-13)
Study
We started this prayer by acknowledging God's unique character and greatness. We finish our requests by acknowledging God, too. The prayer ends with three phrases.
Thine is the kingdom acknowledges God as King. I think this has at least two implications. First, it restates our commitment to submit to God's authority. We recognize that God is King and, when we do, we're allowing Him to be do what He thinks is best in response to our prayers. Second, we're saying that we believe God is King - that He rules.
This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men. (Dan 4:17)
Thine is the power acknowledges God's ability to meet our needs. We ask Him for help because He has the power to do everything we ask and more:
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Eph 3:20-21)
Thine is the glory acknowledges that the central goal of our prayers should always be to honor God.
What About You?
- Do you acknowledge God as King in your prayers?
- Do you know that He has the power to meet your needs and the needs of those you care for?
- Do you pray for things that you believe will glorify God?