Pray

I would like to understand prayer better in the "new year". Let's get back to the basics, Amy! The best way I can think to do this is to begin with the most famous prayer of all, "The Lord's Prayer" found in Matthew 6. Alright, "basics" and "famous" don't seem to go together but stay with me for a minute!

"Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen."

What did Jesus mean when He said that we should pray this way? I don't think that Jesus was asking us to "copy" this prayer for the rest of our lives ( although that may not be a bad idea ). But how do we see the heart behind this prayer?

This prayer seems to first show an acknowledgement and respect of the holiness of God ( which I think I could do more of ). Then, it covers inviting God's plan and His power into our lives here on the earth ( like it is in Heaven ). I am a living, breathing, piece of "Heaven" on this earth right now! Now, if we prayed this way, we would ask God to provide our needs in the day we are in ( I have the tendency to think of the days ahead ). We then ask for forgiveness, which I am pretty sure I can do daily. Next, we would ask for help away from evil, which is present every day in me and in the world around me. Lastly, the prayer closes with praising God for being God for ever! I can't think of a better way of ending all my prayers than that!

• How is this prayer different from your prayers?
  
• Amy's answer, "This prayer is focused more on God and His plan, than on me and my worries".
  

Welcome!

Hi Ladies, I'm beginning my blog today as something that I want to do in the new year of 2012. I just thought I'd get a little jump start on it because that's just how I am! 2012 is quickly approaching ( in the next 35 hours ) and I am looking forward to opening up this new way of communication between more women in my life. So, here we go girls! I am going to be posting about the new things God shares with me in my life, recommended reading lists, devotionals, my dreams for the new year, and my struggles. I am hoping for this to be an interactive blog ( because I don't need to hear myself talk any more than I already do! ) for any women that want to be in a community of growth together... so, get ready because I will be asking you questions about your life too! WELCOME! - Matthew 18:20 NLT "For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them."