Focus on the Father

“Our Father in heaven…”
Matthew 6:9 (NIV)

Do you ever feel like your prayers aren’t being heard?

There is an ancient wall that is over 2000 years old and is the most famous and most visited in the world. It’s called the Wailing Wall. And for centuries, people have come there to pray, hoping God will hear them. 

Perhaps there are times when you feel like you’re talking to a wall in prayer. You don’t know how to pray when to pray, or your prayers don’t seem effective. Today you can sit at the feet of the master teacher in prayer and speak to the God who listens. 

In Matthew chapter six, the disciples ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. He gives them the perfect pattern of prayer, commonly called “The Lord's Prayer.” Jesus says, “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,’” (Matthew 6:9, NIV)

Jesus’ pattern of prayer teaches you to begin with your Father who is in heaven. This statement reminds you of two important truths: God is in heaven and supreme in power and majesty. And He is your heavenly Father. You have a close relationship with Almighty God. 

Why does Jesus ask you to start with these two words? Many times, you may approach with your list of needs. When you set your heart on your Father and His goodness first, He helps you see your situation from His heavenly perspective.

The more you focus on who God is, the less you will experience anxiousness, fear, and uncertainty. Start here: He is your good Father and you are His beloved child. You will pray from a place of safety, protection and peace. 

Your heavenly father knows what you need, and cares for you. And He wants you to remember that He is in heaven–far above all the pain, discouragement, frustration or fear you could face. 

Pray to your Father. He has the power to reach into your heart and situation with the gentle and healing touch of the Holy Spirit. Your Father always hears, always cares and will never ignore you.

Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, Thank You for being close to me. I praise You, Lord, for always listening and always responding. Thank You that I’m never talking to a wall, but to my Father. Help me live in the peace and confidence of a child of God. Let me begin each prayer knowing that You are near and listening. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.