Pray: Start With God - Rediscovering Your Heavenly Father
5 Day Devotional
This five day devotional will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. We will explore the theme of prayer, its significance in our spiritual journey, and how to develop a meaningful conversation with God, just like Jesus taught his disciples.
Day 1
Matthew 6:9
In the disciples' prayer, we learn about the profound relationship between God and us as our Father. Establishing a connection with Him is not about formulating the perfect words, but rather acknowledging Him as our Father and embracing our identity as His children. This assures us that prayer is more than just ritual—it’s rooted in a personal bond with the Almighty.
When we say "Our Father," we are reminded of the intimate connection we can have with God, an opportunity to approach Him with the simplicity of a child. The starting point of a meaningful prayer is establishing this relationship, prioritizing worship before our wants, and trusting that He cares for us infinitely.
How does calling God "Father" change your perspective on prayer?
In what ways can you deepen your relationship with God this week?
Reflect on a time when prayer helped you feel closer to God.
Pray for a better understanding of God as your Father.
Ask God to help you foster a genuine prayer life.
Day 2
Luke 11:2
Prayer is not about the eloquence of our words, but the earnestness of our hearts. When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, they did so because they observed His constant and meaningful connection with the Father. It was not about public display but private devotion. This implies that a significant aspect of prayer is the hidden life—a personal communion away from the crowd.
Our daily prayer should reflect the simplicity and sincerity Jesus taught—acknowledgment of God's kingdom, our need for daily sustenance, and forgiveness. In cultivating this practice, prayer becomes an extension of our faith walk, not confined to flippant recitals, but a deeper heart cry for divine guidance and grace.
How can you incorporate prayer as a daily discipline?
Are there distractions preventing you from genuine prayers?
What steps can you take to improve your private prayer life?
Seek focus and clarity in your prayers.
Ask for the humility to pray sincerely without seeking attention.
Day 3
Matthew 6:10
Prayers not only change our hearts but also align them with God's will. When we petition for "Your kingdom come, Your will be done," we are surrendering our desires to embrace God's perfect plan. A pivotal part of learning to pray is recognizing that we are not just asking for changes in our circumstances but allowing God to transform us in the process.
The process of aligning our desires with God's will requires continual examination of our motivations and seeking His guidance. Our requests should echo the intimacy we share with Him, grounded in the trust that His plan is ultimately for our good and His glory.
What does surrendering to God's will look like in your life?
Are there parts of your life you struggle to relinquish control over?
How do you feel when your prayers seem unanswered?
Pray for the wisdom to seek God's will over your own.
Request courage to embrace God's plans, regardless of the outcome.
Day 4
Matthew 6:11
Trusting God for our daily needs is an exercise of faith. "Give us this day our daily bread" speaks to reliance on God's provision—not just in material means but also in spiritual and emotional nourishment. It echoes back to the Israelites, depending on manna from heaven; similarly, God invites us to trust Him each day afresh.
Prayer is an opportunity to bring our needs before God, not just what we require for survival but for thriving in His purpose. It means resting in the assurance that God knows our needs and will provide in His timing and manner. This dependence opens our hearts to gratitude and remembrance of His past faithfulness.
What are some daily needs you struggle to trust God with?
Identify areas where God has provided for you unexpectedly.
How does acknowledging God’s provision change your attitude?
Thank God for past provisions.
Ask for continued trust in His daily sustenance and care.
Day 5
Matthew 6:12-13
Forgiveness and protection are profound benefits of prayer. "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" reminds us of the ongoing cleansing we receive and offer. Prayer becomes an avenue for reconciliation—within ourselves and with others, an active step towards peace and understanding.
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" assures us of God's guidance and protection. We walk with confidence, not in our strength but in His sustaining grace. Prayer empowers us to face challenges and affords us the assurance that God equips and protects us from spiritual adversities.
Reflect on areas in your life needing forgiveness or offering it.
What temptations consistently challenge your spirituality?
How can you rely more on God's deliverance in times of trouble?
Pray for a forgiving heart mirroring God’s forgiveness.
Request vigilance and strength against life's temptations.
