How We Pray
Back in the 90’s, there was a show called Kids Say the Darndest Things. If you’ve ever spent time around children, you know how true that is. Their innocence and honesty can be both hilarious and profound. I came across some children’s prayers recently that reminded me of this. One prayed, “Dear God, thank You for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy.” Another asked, “Dear God, did you mean for giraffes to look like that or was it an accident?”
I can almost picture God smiling as He hears those kinds of prayers. They may not be polished or theologically precise, but they are honest. And in many ways, that’s where all of us begin in prayer—with simple words, uncertain steps, but a heart turned toward God.
We’re in a series called “A Church That Prays” and last week we looked at why we pray: because God invites us into conversation with Him. Prayer isn’t just us talking or just Him speaking—it’s communion, a back-and-forth relationship. But prayer doesn’t always come naturally. Talking to someone you can’t see or hear audibly can feel strange at first. Which is why it’s so comforting that the disciples once asked Jesus the very same question we often ask: “Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1)
And in response, Jesus gave them a model—a prayer that begins not with our worries, but with worship:
“Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come…” (Luke 11:2)
That first word, Father, changes everything. Prayer is not approaching a distant ruler, but a loving parent who delights to hear from His children. Some of us may struggle with this picture because our earthly fathers weren’t always loving or present. Yet Jesus shows us that our heavenly Father is holy, perfect, and trustworthy. The One who hung the stars bends low to hear your whisper.
Jesus continues: “Give us each day our daily bread.” (Luke 11:3)
Here, He reminds us of Israel’s story in the wilderness, when God provided manna—just enough for each day. Prayer teaches us to depend on God in the same way. Not hoarding tomorrow’s worries, but trusting Him for today’s needs.
Then comes a prayer of confession and release: “Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.” (Luke 11:4)
Prayer brings us back to the cross, where we are reminded that forgiveness flows to us and through us. We receive mercy, and we extend mercy.
Finally, Jesus teaches us to pray, “Lead us not into temptation.” (Luke 11:4)
This is a prayer of protection. It acknowledges our weakness and asks for God’s strength to walk faithfully.
But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He tells a story about a man knocking on his neighbor’s door at midnight—persistence that borders on absurdity (Luke 11:5–8). And then He says something astonishing: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9)
Prayer, Jesus teaches, is not about getting the words perfect—it’s about boldly bringing our needs to a loving Father who delights to give good gifts. In fact, the greatest gift He gives is not simply what we ask for, but His very presence: “How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13)
So how do we pray? Start small. Begin with worship. Surrender your will. Ask for what you need today. Confess your sins and forgive others. And then—keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking.
Above all, pray honestly, like a child. God isn’t impressed by fancy words—He’s moved by honest hearts.
Maybe this week your prayer can be as simple as: “Lord, teach me to pray.” Imagine starting each morning with that request.
God isn’t looking for perfect prayers—He’s looking for present hearts. So come to Him today. Say, “Our Father…” and let His presence shape your heart, your thoughts, and your life.
Reflection Question:
What step could you take this week to deepen your prayer life—whether it’s five minutes in the morning, journaling your prayers, or simply praying the Lord’s Prayer slowly and thoughtfully?
Invitation:
Why not begin right now? Take a moment—even a short one—and pray, “Father, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come.” And let God meet you in that simple, honest prayer.