By // Compass Christian Church

Introduction

If you’re new to prayer or exploring faith, the idea of talking to an unseen God can be daunting. Where do you even start? In a recent sermon, Pastor John Jenkins offered the Lord’s Prayer as a simple yet profound blueprint that can guide you in your spiritual journey. He outlined it with the following acrostic: P.R.A.I.S.E.

Praise (v. 9)

The Lord’s Prayer begins by reminding us who God is – and by extension, who we are not. God is our heavenly Father, and His name alone is holy. 

Rule (v. 10)

God is sovereign: perfect power and perfect wisdom working in tandem. Submission to God’s will takes humility and a constant laying down of one’s self. 

Accommodate (v. 11) 

Do you trust – really trust – God to meet all of your needs? Later in Matthew 6, Jesus taught a similar principle: “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). 

Iniquity (v. 12)

Iniquity means sin – that which separates us from God and others. We must remember that we’ve been forgiven much, and therefore, we must also forgive. 

Shield (v. 13) 

When we are tempted, God will always provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13). God is our ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1), and with the power of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome! 

Empire (v. 13)

Like bookends, the Lord’s Prayer finishes where it started: with praise and a reminder of God’s exalted position over all creation. Take comfort today that He is in control.

Takeaway

The Lord’s Prayer is more than an ancient text; it’s a practical guide for anyone looking to enrich their relationship with God. Take time today to read the Lord’s Prayer out loud, with confidence, and thank God that He allows us to know Him in this way.