What is prayer?

Jesus teaches about prayer most explicitly in the Gospel of Matthew during the Sermon on the Mount. Here, Jesus presents what is commonly referred to as the Lord's Prayer or the Our Father, which serves as a model for prayer. This can be found in Matthew 6:9-13. Here is the verse: 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Here’s the prayer as Jesus teaches it:

1. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. - This line is about honoring God’s name and recognizing His holiness.
2. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. - This expresses a desire for God's rule and will to be established everywhere.
3. Give us today our daily bread. - This is a request for daily sustenance and needs.
4. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. - This seeks God’s forgiveness and emphasizes the importance of forgiving others.
5. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. - This is a plea for help in overcoming sin and avoiding situations that would lead to wrongdoing.

In the verses surrounding the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:5-8), Jesus also gives instructions on how to pray, emphasizing privacy and sincerity, and warns against repetitive and showy prayers. He encourages followers to pray in a simple, honest manner, focusing on a deep personal connection with God rather than public approval.