INTRODUCTION

The Gospels tell us of a number of occasions when Jesus prayed. Our communion with God is no less important. Christ gave His disciples what is now known as the Lord’s Prayer, thus teaching them that their discipleship depended on their communication with God the Father. As we study Christ’s example and instruction of how to pray contained in the Lord’s Prayer, we will seek to identify those attitudes required for true communication with God. Such communication is no less essential today if we would live for Jesus.

THEME THOUGHTS

In this day of micro-technology, we should have no difficulty in grasping the concept that small things can be significant. We may feel that we are just one among millions on this earth, but in God’s eyes we are important; and that is the point we wish to convey throughout this quarter.

God has a plan for each of us! As we begin our Christian walk, and then continue to grow in His grace, we will want to find out what that plan is, and do our best to follow it. To discover God’s plan for us, we need to communicate with Him. With that thought is mind, this quarter opens with two lessons focusing on prayer. The lessons following those deal with recognizing the call of God and fitting ourselves to be usable in His service.

We look at the importance of witnessing to others, and the vital necessity of holding on through hard places. The quarter moves on to a series of lessons on choosing and keeping friends who will not hinder our spiritual growth. The concluding thrust is the importance of staying on the alert, ready at any moment for the Lord’s coming.

SUPPLEMENTAL SCRIPTURES

1 Chronicles 16:11; Matthew 26:41; Ephesians 6:18

QUESTION

1.In your own words, define prayer.

2.When two friends communicate well, what is the result? Make a spiritual application.

3.Christ began the Lord’s Prayer with the words, “Our Father which art in heaven.” What do these words imply regarding our relationship with Him?

4.In reference to the phrase, “Hallowed be thy name,” define the word hallow. What attitude is evidenced by the use of this phrase, and why should this attitude be evidenced in our prayers?

5.Verse 10 includes the words, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” If these words are said sincerely, they reflect a spirit of submission. What are some of the specific areas which would then be submitted to the will of God?

6.The phrase, “Give us this day our daily bread,” indicates a feeling of dependence upon God. Name some other things for which we depend upon God.

7.What two thoughts are brought out by the phrase, “Forgive us our debts [trespasses], as we forgive our debtors [those who trespass against us]”?

8.Explain in your own words what is meant by the phrase, “And lead us not into temptation.”

9.What attitude toward God is reflected in the concluding words of the prayer?