We often think prayer is about saying the right words or following the right formula. But Jesus shows us something deeper—prayer is relational. When we see God as Father, everything changes. The Lord’s Prayer isn’t just a model—it’s an invitation into intimacy, intercession, and spiritual family.
REVIEW: Prayer Begins with Relationship.
- READ: Luke 11:1-2 — “Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’ Jesus said, ‘This is how you should pray: Father, may your name be kept holy.’”
- DISCUSS: When you pray, do you approach God more like a stranger or like a loving Father? Why does that matter?
REVIEW: Prayer Carries the Heart of the Father.
- READ: Luke 11:2-4 — “May your Kingdom come soon. Give us each day the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation.”
- DISCUSS: Who is God asking you to pray for right now—and how might that prayer shape your heart to look more like His?
REVIEW: Prayer Connects Us to Family..
- READ: Luke 11:3-4 (again) — “Give us each day our daily bread… forgive us… lead us not into temptation…”
- DISCUSS: How might God be calling you to pray with others—not just for others—this week?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Father, You are not distant. You are near. You invite us into relationship, not ritual. Forgive us when we treat prayer like a task instead of a connection with You. Remind us that You are our Abba—our good, trustworthy Father. Teach us to carry Your heart for others in prayer and to stay connected to Your people as we grow. Form us into a praying people, shaped by love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
INVITATION TO RESPOND:
This week, take one intentional step to deepen your prayer life:
- Start With “Father”: Begin each prayer this week by simply saying “Father”—and letting that shape how you pray.
- Pray for Others: Make a list of people to pray for—especially those who are hard to love.
- Join With Others: Find someone to pray with—a friend, your group, your family.
- Write a Prayer: Journal a prayer that reflects your honest heart to the Father.
- Forgive Through Prayer: Ask God to help you release someone who’s hurt you.
Jesus didn’t just teach us how to pray—He showed us who we’re praying to. What would it look like for you to pursue the Father’s heart this week?