Praying Like JesusSample

Hallowed Be Your Name

When Jesus taught His disciples about prayer in Matthew 6, He began with the words, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name ...” One translation says, “may your name be kept holy.”

Jesus taught us that approaching God begins in adoration, reverence, thanksgiving and praise. In light of who God is, it’s only fitting that as we draw near to Him, we acknowledge His greatness, goodness, and love. Jesus modeled prayers of gratitude in everyday moments like before a meal—and on significant occasions like before working a miracle or giving a weighty teaching.

It can be tempting to start prayer by asking God to do something, especially in situations that feel urgent and chaotic—and when your prayer list is long. But when we choose to enter His courts with thanksgiving, and praise who He is and what He has already done, we make honoring and knowing Him the priority—not simply wanting something from Him.

Consequently, our moments of magnifying God in prayer can build our faith and trust as we seek His help.

As we get to know our faithful Father more in His Word, through our experiences, and with authentic prayer, our hearts start to overflow with delight in Him. We come to understand that His life in us is why we can give Him thanks and praise in all circumstances.

So as you talk with God today, don’t skip being still and drinking in His presence with you. In fact, linger here as long as you can.

Pause and Reflect

Where have you recently seen God’s faithfulness in your life? Write these down and spend time thanking God for the way He’s moving.

Pray

Oh Father, I praise and glorify You—my Healer, my Helper, my Hope! You are good, just, faithful, ever-present, all-powerful, full of love and compassion. I rejoice in You through every circumstance because Your love is better than life. My soul clings to You as You hold me in Your everlasting arms. In Jesus’ name, amen.