Faith and Life Topics
How to Pray
Philip Anthony Mitchell
A practical teaching to help believers approach God in prayer with greater understanding, honesty, and consistency.
Covers Matthew 6:5-13
Watch or StudyScripture Reference
Matthew 6:5-13
King James Version (KJV)
5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
9After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11Give us this day our daily bread.
12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
What This Passage Teaches
Prayer Is for the Father, Not an Audience
Jesus warns against praying to be admired. The secret place tests the heart because there is no human applause there—only the Father who sees and hears.
Many Words Do Not Earn a Hearing
Vain repetition treats prayer like a formula. Jesus teaches confidence instead: the Father already knows what His children need before they ask.
Begin with God’s Name, Kingdom, and Will
The pattern starts with God before moving to personal needs. Prayer honors His name, welcomes His rule, and submits earthly desires to His will.
Bring Daily Needs and Spiritual Needs
Jesus teaches His disciples to ask for daily bread, forgiveness, and deliverance from temptation and evil. Nothing necessary for body or soul is outside the Father’s care.
Why It Matters
Jesus gives a pattern, not a performance. Prayer can be simple, honest, God-centered, and confident because it is offered to a Father who already knows what is needed.
This passage also joins dependence on God with restored relationships. Those who ask for forgiveness are taught to forgive others, carrying the mercy they receive into daily life.
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