How to Pray according to Jesus (Matthew 6:5-15)

Do not be like the hypocrites.

God hates pretensions and hypocrisy, Matthew 6:5 says, “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others.”

Pray in secret.

God requires sincerity and honesty in prayer. Matthew 6:6 says, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Do not keep on babbling like pagans.

Don’t say meaningless words when you pray. God wants your honesty. Matthew 6:7-8 says, “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Talk to Him like talking to your earthly father. With reverent honesty pour your heart to Him. Tell Him everything that worries you, even your littlest concern. He loves listening to you! 

Praise the Father.

Begin your prayer praising God and addressing Him as your Father. Acknowledge His sovereignty over everything. Praise Him for who He is. His holiness, power, love, and mercy. Matthew 6:9-10 says, “This then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

Ask God for what you need.

Let your request be made known to God. Tell Him what you need. He is listening. Verse 11 says, “Give us today our daily bread.”

Ask forgiveness for your sins.

Approach God’s throne in humility and with a clean heart. Ask God to forgive your sins and shortcomings. Matthew 6:12a says, “And forgive us our debts,”

Forgive those who sinned against you.

If you want to be forgiven, forgive others. This is the condition God wants you to have when you approach Him, a forgiving heart. Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Pray for protection and deliverance.

Matthew 6:13 says, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”

Thank Him for everything.