Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.”

Luke 11:1-3 (NIV)

 

When Jesus taught His disciples to pray to the Father, He established a culture of sonship and stewardship among them. Prayer communicates two things: who God is and who we are to God and how we understand this relationship shapes how we live and act for Him. We not only become more intimate with God as our Father through prayer, but we also emulate God as His beloved children.

Jesus tells us that we have the privilege and responsibility to carry out our Father's will on Earth as it is in Heaven. We accomplish this through a series of actions that reflect the character and kingdom of God. We can rely on God's provision because He is faithful and trustworthy. We can practice forgiveness because God is both forgiving and merciful. We can confront evil and injustice because God embodies both perfect love and justice.

As God's sons and daughters, let us learn to be good stewards of what He has given us in Christ. Our identity defines our purpose. Our purpose shapes our priorities, which reveal how well we live our lives in the reality of the Kingdom. Once you are established in the kingdom that cannot be shaken, no weapons of the opposing kingdom can overwhelm you with fear (Hebrews 12:28). This explains why Jesus' disciples were so successful in preaching the gospel, healing the sick, and casting out demons—they were fully persuaded of the Kingdom's presence and power in their midst.

Remember, you are no longer a part of this world. Remind and keep reminding yourself of the truth that the Kingdom is near, and you will experience its reality in increasing measure both now and in the days ahead.