At one point Jesus was asked by His disciples about the subject of prayer – to which He replied: “Pray this way: Dear Father in heaven, Your name is holy. Your kingdom come and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us what we need for this day, and forgive us our debts, as we also are forgiving those indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil – for Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. So be it.” Matthew 6:9-15
When we join Jesus in praying for His Kingdom reigning in and around us it is critical to return to these words but to not necessarily be limited to them (repetitions et al.) Here are some things which can make us effective in praying for the Kingdom of Jesus.
When we pray INTENTIONALLY we allow ourselves to be carefully aware of our Father’s priorities. While we have many pressing things in our lives, nothing should pre-empt the glory and will of our Creator. When we practice intentional asking in light of God’s will we are blessed.
We honor our King when we pray FAITHFULLY. Prioritizing things that are important to God, once again, result in honor. As we do so we testify to our neighbors (as well as to principalities and powers in the heavens) that He comes first.
This leads to compassion by association. Because God is so generous and kind to us, we learn from Him to act KINDLY to our neighbor. When this permeates our prayers we are so much more aware of His Kingdom in and around us. And because He is “slow to anger and overflowing with lovingkindness” this becomes the template for our lives.
BOLDLY
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
When we pray HOPEFULLY we are placing all confidence in God for answers to our Kingdom prayers. “For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?” Romans 8:24 We pray in faith and find our hope as we choose the way of love.
Does praying really change anything?
“In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.” John 16:23
So it appears we pray the Kingdom whenever we follow in the footsteps of our Master’s example.
Peace upon your heart and mission!
Dave and Burnadette
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