Morning, October 29

This prayer begins where all true prayer must commence, with the spirit of adoption, "Our Father." There is no acceptable prayer until we can say, "I will arise and go to my father." This child-like spirit soon perceives the grandeur of the Father "in heaven," and ascends to devout adoration, "Hallowed be Your name." The child lisping, "Abba, Father," grows into the cherub crying, "Holy, Holy, Holy!"

There is but a step from rapturous worship—to the glowing missionary spirit, which is a sure outgrowth of filial love and reverent adoration, "may Your kingdom come, may Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."

Next follows the heartfelt expression of dependence upon God, "Give us this day our daily bread."

Being further illuminated by the Spirit, he discovers that he is not only dependent—but sinful, hence he entreats for mercy, "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors."

And being pardoned, having the righteousness of Christ imputed, and knowing his acceptance with God, he humbly supplicates for holy perseverance, "Lead us not into temptation." The man who is really forgiven, is anxious not to offend again; the possession of justification leads to an anxious desire for sanctification. "Forgive us our debts," that is justification; "Lead us not into temptation—but deliver us from evil," that is sanctification in its negative and positive forms.

As the result of all this, there follows a triumphant ascription of praise, "Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever, Amen." We rejoice that our King reigns in providence and shall reign in grace, even unto the ends of the earth, and of His dominion there shall be no end.

Thus from a sense of adoption, up to fellowship with our reigning Lord, this short model of prayer conducts the soul. Lord, teach us thus to pray!

Courtesy of Grace Gems! Used by permission.