What if we all prayed the same prayer at the same time? In this series, which is being done in partnership with dozens of churches throughout South Florida, we’ll explore how we can pray like Jesus. In week one, we’ll dive into Jesus’ model for us: The Lord’s Prayer. 

GETTING THE CONVERSATION GOING

Icebreaker Question: If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be? 

TAKE IT IN

In this section, we’ll give a brief overview of the topic and some key talking points to consider and reflect on before you dive into the discussion. 

What Is Prayer?

“Prayer, for the Christian, is not merely talking to God, but responding to the One who has initiated toward us. He has spoken first. This is not a conversation we start, but a relationship into which we’ve been drawn. His voice breaks the silence.”—David Mathis

What Is the Highest Purpose of Prayer?

Relationship. It’s not to get anything from God, because we get God Himself! “It is not wrong to want God’s gifts and ask for them. Most prayers in the Bible are for the gifts of God. But ultimately, every gift should be desired because it shows us and brings us more of Him.”—John Piper

A Model for Prayer

Have you ever had trouble writing an e-mail or letter? What about putting together your resume? Often, it helps to have a template. Templates are extremely useful because they give us a model and method for how to construct our own version of something.  

In Matthew 6, Jesus gives us a template to build our prayer life on: The Lord’s Prayer. It’s one of the most well-known passages in Scripture. Sadly, in many ways we have lost Jesus’ intent and even used it in exactly the way Jesus told us NOT to pray (Matthew 6:7).

Jesus didn’t give us a script. He gave us a template; a model for prayer. He didn’t say, “This, then, is what you should pray,” He said, “This, then, is how you should pray.”

Consider now in your discussions or personal reflection time how your life can reflect this beautiful truth as you interact with others in Jesus’ name!

Memory Verse of the Week: Matthew 6:9–13 (NKJV)

“In this manner, therefore, pray:  

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” 

TALK IT OUT

Below, you’ll find some key discussion questions to personally reflect on and/or discuss in your small group, with your family, or in your circle of friends.

Discussion Question 1: Why do we pray?

Discussion Question 2: Why should we pray if God already knows what we need?

Discussion Question 3: The Lord’s Prayer has two main sections: God-focused worship and alignment, followed by asking for our needs to be met. Why is it structured in this order?

Discussion Question 4: What is the one thing you’re most afraid to relinquish to God?

WALK IT OUT

Close with a time of silent prayer. Open your hands and hold them out in front of you. Imagine putting that one thing you’re most afraid of relinquishing to God in your hands and saying to God, “Your will be done.”