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Praying the Lord’s Prayer line by line

Jesus gave us a pattern for prayer. Slow it down, one line at a time, and let each phrase open a part of your life to God.

When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, he gave them a prayer short enough to memorise and deep enough for a lifetime. Instead of reciting it quickly, try praying it slowly: pause after each line and pray in your own words about what it means today.

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9–13, KJV)

"Our Father which art in heaven" You are speaking to a Father, not a stranger. Thank him that you belong to his family, and remember that "our" includes everyone at your table.

"Hallowed be thy name" Ask that God would be honoured in your words, your work and your reputation today.

"Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done" Bring your plans, your business and your decisions under his rule. Pray: "Your will, not mine, in this."

"Give us this day our daily bread" Ask for what you need today: provision, customers, strength, wisdom. Daily bread means trusting him one day at a time.

"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors" Confess what you need forgiven. Then name anyone you need to forgive, and choose to release them.

"Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil" Name the temptations you will likely face today (pride, anger, shortcuts, worry) and ask for protection and a way out.

"For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory" End in confidence. The outcome belongs to him.