The disciples who walked with Jesus asked Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1d Jesus shares with the disciples what is known as the “Lord's Prayer.” Many contemporary Bible scholars suggest that Jesus’ prayer found in John 17 is the actual Lord’s Prayer, and that the prayer found in Luke and Matthew 6:9-13 be called the “Model Prayer.” Regardless of which you call the Lord’s Prayer, there is one indisputable fact about Jesus’ life. It was enriched by Prayer. Jesus is our model and example. He prayed without ceasing. Jesus is our model for ceaseless prayer, and a study of Jesus’ life reveals that He lived and modeled a life of Joy and Gratitude in front of the Disciples.
Rejoice God says, “Rejoice evermore” (KJV) which suggests that we ought to live and pray with increasing Joy. Our sense of connectedness and favor ought to increase and grow as we spend more time in God’s presence through Prayer. We have been given the privilege of speaking directly to God without a human mediator. We are in personal contact with the Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer of Life. We are tied to the “First Mover” through Prayer which provides access to the power we need to live.
Give Thanks God instructs us to “give thanks in all circumstances…” (NIV) We are empowered through ceaseless prayer to see everything as the Will of God concerning us. The challenge is that many circumstances are unpleasant and often down-right painful. Yet God instructs, “urges” or “admonishes” us to maintain the proper perspective as people of prayer as we experience the challenges as well as the triumphs of life.
Give thanks that we have a connection with the God of our Salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. We are empowered through our relationship which is made sure and strong through prayerful living.