THE LORD’S PRAYER
Matthew 6:9-13
This prayer begins where all true prayer must commence, with the spirit of adoption, Our Father
There is no acceptable prayer until we can say, “I will arise, and go unto my Father.” This child-like spirit soon perceives the grandeur of the Father “which art in heaven,” and ascends to devout adoration, “hallowed be Thy Name.”
The child lisping, “Abba, Father,” grows into the cherub crying, “Holy, Holy, Holy.” There is but a step from rapturous worship to the glowing missionary spirit, which is a sure outgrowth of filial love and reverent adoration--- “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
Next follows the heartfelt expression of dependence upon God --- “Give us this day our daily bread.”
Being further illuminated by the Spirit, he discovers that he is not only dependent, but sinful, hence he entreats for mercy.
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”
And being pardoned, having the righteousness of Christ imputed, and knowing his acceptance with God, he humbly supplicates for holy perseverance, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
That is sanctification in its negative and positive forms. As the result of all this, there follows a triumphant ascription of praise, “For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
We rejoice that our King reigns in providence and shall reign in grace, from the river even to the ends of the earth, and of His Kingdom there shall be no end. Thus from a sense of adoption, up to fellowship with our reigning Lord, this short model of prayer conducts the soul. Lord, teach us thus to pray.
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