The Lord’s Prayer: How to Pray It

The Lord’s Prayer is the prayer our Lord Jesus Christ taught His disciples before His ascension (Matthew 6:9-13, Luke 11:2-4, NIV). By teaching this prayer, Jesus was not only instructing His immediate followers but also providing a model for all believers throughout history. It reveals how we should approach God in prayer intimately, respectfully, and purposefully.

Understanding the Prayer Fully

It’s crucial to grasp the depth of this prayer, so our prayers don’t become empty repetition or mere ritualistic chants. Jesus warned against “vain repetitions” like those of the pagans who believe they will be heard for their many words (Matthew 6:7, NIV). Instead, our prayers should be heartfelt and Spirit-led (Romans 8:26).

The Lord’s Prayer is divided into eight thematic elements. These are not a strict script but rather key focuses or directions for prayer. Each believer is encouraged to pray sincerely according to the Holy Spirit’s leading (John 16:13).

The Text (Matthew 6:7-13, NIV)

“7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.
8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9 This, then, is how you should pray:
‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’
”

1. Our Father in Heaven

Calling God “Father” (Greek Pater) emphasizes a relational intimacy rather than just divine authority. While God is Almighty Creator, He invites us into His family (Romans 8:15-16, NIV). This address reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people.

Jesus contrasts this with the distant, impersonal “God” of pagan religions. We approach God as a loving Father who knows our needs before we speak (v.8).

Theological note:
This title points to the Trinitarian God Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are adopted into God’s family through Christ (Ephesians 1:5).

2. Hallowed Be Your Name

To “hallow” means to honor as holy and set apart (Hebrews 12:28). God’s name represents His character and reputation. The prayer asks that God’s holiness be recognized on earth as it is in heaven.

Paul’s epistle warns how God’s name is dishonored through hypocritical behavior by believers (Romans 2:22-24, NIV). Praying this is a plea for God’s glory to be manifested and His holiness to be revered universally.

Theological note:
God’s name encompasses His nature and covenant. To pray this is to desire the vindication of His character in a world that often rejects Him.

3. Your Kingdom Come

The “Kingdom of God” is both a present spiritual reality and a future hope (Luke 17:20-21). It is God’s sovereign rule, fully realized at Christ’s second coming.

This petition expresses longing for the consummation of God’s reign when suffering and evil will be finally defeated (Revelation 21:1-4).

Theological note:
Praying for the kingdom anticipates the eschatological fulfillment the new heaven and new earth and urges God’s justice and peace to prevail now in believers’ lives.

4. Your Will Be Done, On Earth as It Is in Heaven

Heaven perfectly obeys God’s will (Psalm 103:20-21). Earth, marred by sin, often resists it. This prayer submits our desires and the world’s state to God’s sovereign purposes.

Jesus’ own submission in Gethsemane (“not my will, but yours be done”   Luke 22:42) models this perfect obedience.

Theological note:
This recognizes God’s providence and aligns the believer’s heart with His divine plan.

5. Give Us Today Our Daily Bread

“Daily bread” symbolizes God’s provision for physical needs (Exodus 16:4, manna daily). It reminds us of dependence on God for sustenance and life itself (Psalm 104:27-28).

It also carries spiritual meaning Jesus is the “Bread of Life” (John 6:35), pointing to God’s provision of spiritual nourishment.

Theological note:
This request cultivates trust and gratitude, recognizing God’s faithfulness to provide both material and spiritual needs.

6. Forgive Us Our Debts, As We Also Have Forgiven Our Debtors

“Debts” (Greek opheilēmata) refers to moral failings sins or trespasses against God and others. Forgiveness is foundational in Christian theology, reflecting God’s grace through Christ’s atonement (Ephesians 1:7).

The conditional phrase “as we also have forgiven” highlights the reciprocal nature of forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-35). Unforgiveness hinders our own forgiveness (Mark 11:25).

Theological note:
Forgiveness restores relationship with God and others, echoing Christ’s command to love and forgive.

7. Lead Us Not Into Temptation, But Deliver Us From the Evil One

This petition recognizes the reality of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). “Temptation” (Greek peirasmos) can mean trials or enticements to sin.

We ask God to protect us from the schemes of Satan (“the evil one”) and the spiritual dangers that threaten our faithfulness.

Theological note:
God does not tempt us to sin (James 1:13), but allows trials for our growth. We ask for His guidance and protection to endure and overcome.

8. For Yours Is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory Forever

While this doxology is absent in some early manuscripts, it is included in many translations (NIV footnotes). It expresses praise and acknowledges God’s eternal sovereignty and glory.

It is a fitting conclusion, emphasizing that all power belongs to God, who alone deserves worship forever.

Theological note:
This doxology affirms God’s ultimate authority over history and the church’s role in glorifying Him eternally.

May God bless you.

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