One day, the disciples asked Jesus how they should pray. In return, he told them not to pray lengthy, eloquent prayers to try to impress God or pray on the streets or in public for all to see how “righteous” they were. Instead, he taught them to follow this prayer:

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.”

Jesus ended his teaching with a twist; he challenged his disciples by saying that “if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

It appears that prayer and forgiveness go hand in hand. Is there anyone in your life that you need to forgive?

I want to encourage you to take some time in prayer. Find a quiet, private place and seek God. Take the time to listen. Your prayers don’t need to be anything special, just a genuine conversation with God. If there is someone you need to forgive, bring it up with God. Walk through your hurt with him and ask him to show you how to forgive.

“For your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!”

Jesus said in Matthew 6:8b

How do you experience our caring God in everyday life?

Weekly text: Matthew 6:5-15