The model prayer
When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, He gave them the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). It is not a formula to recite, but a structure for every prayer: worship, surrender, daily needs, forgiveness and protection.
Line by line
“Our Father which art in heaven” — God is personal yet exalted
“Hallowed be thy name” — begin with reverence, not requests
“Thy kingdom come” — longing for God's reign
“Thy will be done” — surrender above self-interest
“Give us this day our daily bread” — dependence for each day
“Forgive us our debts” — honesty about failure
“Lead us not into temptation” — asking to be kept
Application
Try using the Lord's Prayer this week as a framework for your own prayer. Take each line as a starting point and fill it in with your own words. You will find it gives your prayer direction and depth.
Reflection
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” — Matthew 6:14