Your prayers, rather, should be simple, like this: Our Father in heaven, let Your name remain holy. Matthew 6:9, The Voice
Our prayers are directed to our heavenly Father. It is out of a community of believers that we are able to confidently petition ‘our’ Father in heaven. The prayer of Jesus was inclusive of His disciples and all who would follow Him. Indeed, we do not pray only as individual followers of Christ, but as the Body of Christ. Our heavenly Father is able to commune with all who come to Him in relationship, repentance and renewal. God is an engaged Father to all who trust Him.
Furthermore, we cry out in prayer to our loving heavenly Father. His love is what comforts our hearts and enlightens our minds. His love lingers long, as we long for His compassion and care. The love of our Lord is like the vast sea in its ability transport us like a ship from a shore of sin to a shore of salvation, from a port of pain to a port of peace, and from a harbor of hell to a harbor of heaven. Our heavenly Father loves us where we are and draws us where He is, for our good.
“Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me” (Psalm 66:20).
Our heavenly Father is also the giver of all wisdom. He is generous with His gifts from heaven above for what we need on earth below. Hallelujah, our Father does not leave us to flounder in confusion, but He has given us a course of action based on His character. His Spirit offers direction in a decision. He brings clarity to what’s best long term, not just what’s expedient in the short term. He discerns how to best relate in a challenging relationship. He gives forgiveness, understanding and patience to stay involved. Yes, our Father’s wisdom is counter to the culture.
Just as any good and loving Father disciplines his children, so our heavenly Father reminds us of what’s right. When we feel the gentle correction of our Father, we are wise to change immediately and not require a more severe scenario. Yes, His discipline is meant to deter us from destructive behavior and protect us from painful outcomes. Distant dads do not care about correction, only those who are close, interested and involved. God disciplines us because He loves us. Our Father is in heaven, but He walks with us on earth. We pray to our ever faithful Father!
“Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief” (Psalm 143:1).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, what a joy to seek Your loving kindness and faithful love in focused prayer.
Related Readings: Psalm 32:6, 42:8; Isaiah 55:6; Luke 11:13; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 1:17
