Matthew 6:9-15
Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your kingdom come soon May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:9-15 (NLT)
As we celebrate Independence Day today, we reflect on why our forefathers and mothers fought for freedom from British rule over the American colonists led by the British parliament members and King George lll. A king that imposed a series of unpopular laws and taxes for his worldly power over others. Many colonists died for our freedom from British rule to become the United States of America – a sacrifice.
Quite the contrast to our devotional scripture for today, in which a humble king teaches us about freedom from sin through His sacrificial love. A king who taught all of us how to live for God and for others in His kingdom. Through a special prayer, Jesus teaches us about how we can talk to God to establish a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. In this prayer Jesus taught us the importance of reverence, gratitude, love, and forgiveness. Christ came to earth to change our focus from an all about me attitude to putting God first in our lives so we can humbly help and support others.
As we celebrate today with fireworks and family gatherings, be reminded of all the sacrifices that have been made over the years for our independence, and thank God that He sent His Son to earth to save us from our sins and model the greatest sacrifice of all!
Questions for Reflection:
- Think about ways that you can show and share your gratitude for God and others in your life.
- How can you use Christ’s model of prayer as a guide to develop a deeper prayer life for yourself?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for sending your Son as a modeler of prayer and sacrificial love. Please guide us in our daily lives as we pray for wisdom to live a life for you. Amen
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