Nothing frustrates a coach more than players leaving their playbooks lying on the locker room floor. There are always a few players who think, “When all else fails, read the instructions.” Likewise, many Christians approach life the same way— “When all else fails, pray.” Thankfully, Jesus had a different approach to prayer.

Luke 11 – The Model Prayer

When Jesus’ disciples asked him how to pray (Luke 11:1-4), He gave them an example that is still followed today. It’s not meant to be a magic formula. The words themselves don’t have any specific power to influence God. The Bible teaches the opposite. God is more interested in our hearts when we pray than in our words. Here’s an outline for this model prayer:

1. 1. Give honor and praise to God the Father.
   2. Submit to God’s plan for the world.
   3. Pray boldly regardless of the circumstances.

Church history and tradition call this prayer in Luke 11, “The Lord’s Prayer,” but that’s not quite right. The better description is “The Disciples’ Prayer” or “The Model Prayer.” Luke 11 also gives two parables as examples of how we should approach God.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete confidently make their requests to God through prayer, knowing He will answer them in His time. They trust in God’s goodness even when the answer is no.

Bible Memory Verse – “The one who listens to you listens to Me, and the one who rejects you rejects Me. And he who rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.” Luke 10:16 LSB

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