Praying like Jesus means expressing your heartfelt thoughts when you speak to the Father. Jesus encourages us to be vocal about our needs and concerns, to ask for what we require and seek guidance. However, it’s important to remember that God is not merely a genie granting wishes; He may not always grant exactly what we ask for. Instead, God provides us with what we truly need, which may not always align with our specific requests.
Jesus Prayed
Jesus’ acknowledgment of the Father’s supreme wisdom and authority was made even clearer in what followed after his request. In Matthew 26:39, it is recorded that He went a little farther, fell on his face, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” Jesus was speaking to God just as you would to your dad, asking if there was another way all this could be done. However, He ended it by saying, “but if this is the way it must be, then I trust your judgment.” Jesus knew that God is the ultimate wisdom, far beyond what we can comprehend. God absolutely loves us and wants the best for us even if we do not understand. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
God calls us to “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), be devoted to prayer (Colossians 4:2), and “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer shouldn’t be ignored and needs to be a part of our lives each day. In Romans 12:12, the Apostle Paul says, “be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Clearly, prayer is important to God, which is why Jesus teaches us how to pray.
Jesus teaches us
Address God appropriately as the Father: When we pray, Jesus encourages us to approach God with a reverent and intimate attitude, recognizing Him as our Heavenly Father. This address signifies our relationship with God as His children, emphasizing the closeness and love we can experience with Him.
Praise God for who He is and what He has done: Prayer is not just about asking for things; it is also a time to express gratitude and adoration towards God. Jesus teaches us to acknowledge and praise God for His character, His attributes, and His deeds, both in our lives and throughout history. This step reminds us of God’s goodness and the blessings He bestows upon us.
Acknowledge that God’s plan is in control, not ours: It’s important to surrender our desires and plans to God’s will. Jesus reminds us that God’s plan and purpose for our lives are ultimately in His hands. By acknowledging His sovereignty, we demonstrate trust in God’s wisdom and understanding, even if His plan may differ from our own.
Ask God for what we need: Jesus encourages us to bring our needs and desires before God in prayer. We can ask for His provision, guidance, healing, strength, and other necessities with faith and confidence, knowing that God cares for us and desires to answer our prayers according to His perfect will.
Confess how we have sinned and repent with a humble heart: Prayer is a time for self-reflection and acknowledging our shortcomings. Jesus teaches us to confess our sins and turn away from them with genuine repentance. This step fosters humility and helps us maintain a right relationship with God, knowing that He is gracious and merciful to forgive us when we come to Him with a contrite heart.
Request God’s protection and support in overcoming the evil one’s attacks on our lives: In a world filled with spiritual battles and temptations, Jesus advises us to seek God’s protection and support. By praying for His guidance and strength, we can stand firm against the schemes of the evil one, knowing that God is our refuge and defender.
Jesus’ teachings on prayer encompass a comprehensive approach that includes reverence, praise, submission to God’s plan, petition for our needs, confession, and seeking divine protection. Through these steps, we can deepen our relationship with God, align our hearts with His purposes, and experience the transformative power of prayer in our lives.
As always I recommend that you find a Bible and open it for yourself. Man is flawed but the word of God is not. Jesus is the Truth, the Light, and the Way.