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Please note that this episode and any subsequent episodes pertaining to the Book of Ephesians are for women only!This is a study of the Book of Ephesians. We will be using Susan Heck's study guide for structure, but I will also incorporate additional sources for commentary in the study. If you want to purchase this book, feel free to do so here:With the Master: On our Knees:https://www.amazon.com/Master-Our-Knees-Ladies-Prayer/dp/1636643310/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2ERGI7MJCUX6Z&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.IEsfYUbQ9RLYjapRBnn4AZmGPDEvFoektxRHtumXvy4.WM3uB1jV1OIdY48d6LATBcnOT8uuYF5hI0wPsxrtxlE&dib_tag=se&keywords=on+our+knees+susan+heck&qid=1775476354&sprefix=on+our+k%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-1She also has some free resources here:https://www.withthemaster.org/ho
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The High Priestly Prayer: A Lesson in Glory and Prayer In the latest episode of "Truth Worth Living," we dive deep into John 17, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. This prayer is a profound moment in the Gospel, offering insights into Jesus' relationship with the Father and his mission on earth. As we explore this passage, we uncover the themes of glory and prayer, which are central to understanding Jesus' purpose and our own approach to prayer. Setting the Scene The High Priestly Prayer occurs in the upper room, right before Jesus heads to the Garden of Gethsemane. This prayer is a pivotal moment as Jesus prepares for the final stages of God's plan to redeem humanity. It follows a conversation where Jesus warns his disciples about his impending departure and the challenges they will face. Yet, he reassures them with the promise of the Holy Spirit, who will empower them to overcome the world, just as Jesus is about to overcome the grave. The Structure of the Prayer Jesus' prayer in John 17 is divided into three parts: Prayer for Himself: Jesus begins by asking the Father to glorify him so that he can, in turn, glorify the Father. This request is not about self-exaltation but about revealing God's holy character and love through the resurrection. Prayer for His Disciples: Jesus prays for those he will leave behind, asking for their protection and sanctification as they continue his mission. Prayer for Future Believers: Jesus extends his prayer to all who will believe in him through the disciples' message, emphasizing unity and love as a testament to the world. Understanding Glory The concept of glory is central to Jesus' prayer. Glory is mentioned multiple times, highlighting its importance. But what is glory? It's a term we often struggle to define. Glory is the outward expression of God's inward goodness. It's the manifestation of God's holy character, seen through his works and our response to them. When Jesus prays, "Father, glorify me," he is asking for the ultimate demonstration of God's character through his resurrection. This act of glorification is not for Jesus' benefit alone but to point others to God's power and love. Lessons on Prayer From Jesus' prayer, we learn that the key to having our prayers answered is aligning them with God's glory. Jesus' request for glorification was rooted in his commitment to God's will and glory. He was trustworthy with glory, which is why God answered his prayer. As we pray, we should ask ourselves if our ambitions align with God's glory. Are we seeking to glorify God in our requests, or are we driven by self-interest? Praying for God's glory ensures that we are praying in alignment with his will. Conclusion The High Priestly Prayer is a profound lesson in understanding glory and aligning our prayers with God's will. As we reflect on Jesus' words in John 17, let us strive to live for God's glory, trusting that when our prayers are rooted in this purpose, they are indeed "Truth Worth Living." As we move forward, let us pray for God's glory to be revealed in our lives and in the world, just as Jesus did. May we be vessels of his love and truth, bringing glory to his name in all we do.
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In this episode of the KC Underground podcast, Brian and Cory begin a new season focused on extraordinary prayer—returning to the first phase of the Disciple-Maker Pathway with fresh urgency and a deeply personal invitation. Rather than offering quick answers, they open up their own journeys of conviction, hunger, and surrender, asking what it really means to become people of prayer.This conversation sets the tone for a broader learning journey, inviting listeners to rediscover prayer not as a practice to master, but as a life to enter. As we look ahead to a national prayer summit in Kansas City, September 18th - 19th, and a season of learning from others, the invitation is this: come with curiosity, humility, and a desire to be formed—“Lord, teach us to pray.”
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Sermon delivered by Joshua LewisHow do we hear the voice of God? And how do we discern whether it's really Him speaking? In the final week of our Teach Us To Pray series, we explore the practice of listening prayer. We'll talk about the voice of God and how followers of Jesus can learn to recognize the gentle leading of the Holy Spirit.
Dave Clayton | 06.07.26 | ethoschurch.org
Sermon Series: Lost & Found Preacher: Josh White 6.7.26 AM
James Teaches on 2 Kings 6 and Hebrews 11 & 12 as he discussed how our prayers join us to the heavenly hosts and cloud of witnesses in the unseen realm. We Don't Pray Alone - Cloud of Witnesses James Dieter
During this Family Sunday, Pastor Marcus Meier teaches on Luke 11:1-13. He specifically focuses on the Lord's prayer and how Jesus taught His disciples to pray. This service turns into a prayerful service where we engage our hearts and ask in accordance with God's will.
6.7.26 Matthew 6:10
Pastor Mike HoodAM Message 6-7-26
Lord, Teach Us to Pray To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1002/29?v=20251111
Send us Fan MailEpisode 306Speaker: Mary HardimanTopic: Lord teach us to Pray Part 3. Mary gently leads, through her personal experience of being taken beyondher own clan and culture . What freedom and courage.Every BlessingCathy and Archie
The sermon centers on Jesus as the ultimate model for prayer, emphasizing that authentic prayer begins with a reverent awareness of God's holiness, sovereignty, and fatherly love. It presents the Lord's Prayer not as a rigid formula but as a divine pattern—realizing God's greatness, seeking His will and kingdom, making humble requests for daily provision and protection, and trusting in His power and glory. The preacher underscores that prayer is a personal, relational conversation rooted in dependence on God, not ritual or religious performance, and warns against reducing prayer to self-centered demands while neglecting worship, surrender, and forgiveness. By rejecting spiritual pretense and embracing simplicity, believers are invited to cultivate a daily, intimate communion with God, trusting that He already knows our needs and intercedes for us through the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the call is to follow Christ's example—not through perfection, but through persistent, heartfelt reliance on the Father.
Give Us Today Our Daily Bread (Matthew 6:9-11) The Big Idea: Jesus teaches that God isn't just interested in world-changing events; He desires an intimate relationship close enough to walk with you through ordinary, everyday moments. 1. What Is Jesus Telling Us to Pray For? Every Single Daily Need We Have "Daily bread" represents everything necessary for life—physical, emotional, financial, relational, and practical needs. “When we pray for bread we are praying at the same time for ‘everything necessary for the preservation of this life, like food, a healthy body, good weather, house, home...'” — Frederick Dale Bruner (quoting Martin Luther) The Small Things Matter to God We often assume God is too busy for trivial things (traffic, lost keys, stressful meetings). But Jesus transfigured everyday life by inviting us to pray for the small stuff. God welcomes our thousands of trivial matters because He cares about us. 2. What Is Jesus Not Telling Us to Pray For? Our Greeds Rather Than Our Needs Jesus teaches us to pray for bread, not cake. He promises to meet our needs, not fund our greed, comparison, or poor stewardship. “The prayer is for our needs, not our greeds.” — D.A. Carson “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” — James 4:2-3 God's ultimate goal is not merely to make us comfortable, but to make us holy. 3. Six Lessons About Prayer Prayer obtains things for yourself: Asking God for help isn't selfish; it is obedience. Asking is necessary: Not because God is unaware, but because asking develops faith, expresses dependence, and invites God into our lives (James 4:2). God is committed to giving: Jesus doesn't say "if it's not too much trouble." He says, "Give us." We approach a loving Father with audacious confidence, not a reluctant stranger. Pray vaguely or specifically: God doesn't require perfect wording, but specific prayers help us notice specific answers and see His faithfulness. Pray for yourself and others: "Give us" reminds us to carry the community's needs before God. Trust God in unanswered prayer: If God withholds something, we trust His wisdom. As Psalm 23:1 says, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing." 4. Practical Ways to Pray for Daily Bread Pray the words Jesus gave us: Say "Give us today our daily bread" to place your entire day in His hands. Set today's worries before God: Turn daily anxieties (bills, deadlines, appointments) into daily prayers. Set today's calendar before God: Invite God into every meeting, conversation, and task before rushing in. Be the provision for others: Ask, "God, who needs daily bread from me today?" God often answers someone else's prayer through your ordinary kindness. Discipleship Group Questions What "small" concerns do you hesitate to pray about, and why? How does viewing God as a loving Father change how you approach daily needs? Where does the distinction between "need" and "greed" become difficult in everyday life? Which of the six lessons about prayer challenged or encouraged you the most? Who in your life needs "daily bread" right now, and how can you help provide it this week?
Send us Fan MailThe Disciples: Teach Us To PrayMay 31, 2026 • Eric StillmanIn the twenty-first sermon of the sermon series “Meeting Jesus”, we looked at Luke 11:1-13 where Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray.
Title: Lord, teach us to pray Bible Focus: Luke 11:1-4 Preacher: Paul Born Date: 31/05/2026
Lord, Teach us to Pray Prayer (Part 1)Matthew 6:9-10 Most things in life don't come naturally to us. We need a tour guide when we travel, a mentor to walk with us through parenting, and a teacher to help us learn how to read. In the same way, it's unrealistic to assume that everything in the Christian life will come naturally the moment we step into faith. When we assume that everything will come naturally, we forget how much we need God to teach and shape us. God knows that prayer is a spiritual discipline – one that takes time, practice, and guidance as we learn how to honor Him when we approach His throne. Thankfully, He doesn't leave us on our own. Jesus gives us a model for prayer right in the Sermon on the Mount. Join us this Sunday as we dive into our series on prayer and discover how prayer is first and foremost about God, the ruler of the universe
Mikinzi discusses the various methods and benefits of praying in community with other members of the body. We Don't Pray Alone - The Body Mikinzi Rambo
Message from Tom Shirk on May 31, 2026
Send us Fan MailEpisode 305Speaker: Mary HardimanTopic: Lord teach us to pray Part 2.
What if prayer isn't mostly about getting things from God… but joining Him in bringing heaven to earth? This week we explore intercessory prayer: praying for others, contending for God's Kingdom, and becoming people who carry names, places, and situations into the presence of God. Through stories of Monica and Augustine, Scripture, and practical next steps, we ask: Who are you carrying into the presence of God?
As we continue our “Teach Us to Pray” series, guest preacher and former student T.J. Scott walks through the Lord's Prayer and what it means to pray the way Jesus taught us. Through this powerful and familiar passage, we'll discover how prayer shapes our relationship with God and changes the way we live every day.
James teaches on Acts Chapter 2 and Romans 8 as he examines what it means to learn to pray in such a way as to be connected to the Holy Spirit. We Don't Pray Alone - The Spirit James Dieter
Message from John Boyle on May 24, 2026
Teach Us to Pray: Lessons from the Red Letter Prayers In the latest episode of "Truth Worth Living," we delve into the profound practice of prayer as exemplified by Jesus. This discussion centers around the "red letter prayers"—a term used to describe the recorded prayers of Jesus in the Gospels. Today, we explore one such prayer found in the dramatic story of John 11, the raising of Lazarus from the dead. Understanding Jesus' Actions Before we dissect the prayer itself, it is crucial to understand the context. Jesus receives word from Mary and Martha that their brother Lazarus is gravely ill. Instead of rushing to Lazarus' side, Jesus chooses to wait, stating in John 11:4: "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it." This decision is perplexing to those around Him, as Lazarus dies and is buried by the time Jesus arrives. The Prayer at Lazarus' Tomb Upon reaching the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus prays a short yet powerful prayer recorded in John 11:41-42: "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me." This prayer, though brief, is rich in meaning and offers several lessons: Gratitude for God's Listening: Jesus begins by thanking God for hearing Him. This indicates a prior conversation with God, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication with the Father. Assurance of God's Constant Attention: By acknowledging that God always hears Him, Jesus emphasizes the intimate and consistent relationship He maintains with God, a model for our own prayer lives. Public Witness: Jesus vocalizes His prayer not for His own benefit, but so that those around Him might witness and believe in God's power and His divine mission. Declaration of Divine Mission: The ultimate aim of the prayer is to affirm that Jesus is sent by God, underscoring His divine authority and purpose. Lessons for Effective Prayer From this episode, we derive two key principles about effective prayer: Constant Communication with God: Effective prayer stems from a continuous dialogue with God. Jesus' prayer at Lazarus' tomb is not an isolated plea but a continuation of His relationship with God, grounded in previous conversations and understanding of God's will. Focus on God's Glory: Prayers should aim to glorify God. Jesus' actions and words were centered on revealing God's glory. Our prayers, too, should be specific and kingdom-minded, seeking outcomes that unmistakably reflect God's hand. Conclusion The story of Lazarus serves as a powerful reminder of the potential of prayer when aligned with God's will and purpose. By following Jesus' example, we can cultivate a prayer life that not only seeks personal needs but also magnifies God's glory in the world. As we continue to explore the red letter prayers, let us strive to deepen our communication with God and pray with the intent of revealing His glory in our lives. May this reflection inspire you to engage more deeply in prayer, trusting in God's plan and His ever-listening ear.
Send us Fan MailEpisode 304Speaker: Mary Hardiman Topic: Lord, teach us to pray. Part 1 If you're looking for a gentle female Christian witness who makes the wisdom and presence of Jesus Christ feel deeply real, practical, compassionate, and inwardly transformative rather than merely doctrinal, these talks are especially worth exploring. Mary's question at the end of this recording will take you deep.Enjoy the journey Cathy and Archie
What if prayer isn't advanced Christianity… but the baseline of the Christian life?In John 15, Jesus invites us into “the abiding life” — a life of staying connected to Him in the middle of ordinary life. In a world filled with distraction, exhaustion, anxiety, performance, and noise, Jesus offers something different: connection, communion, rest, and life.This sermon explores: • What it means to abide in Christ • The cost of living spiritually disconnected • Why Jesus Himself had a prayer life • Historic Christian practices that help cultivate a life of prayer
This week at Maplewood, we are focused on what it means to really let Jesus teach us to pray. Our text is Luke 11, and the lesson could be game-changer.
Message from Tom Shirk on May 17, 2026
Mikinzi taught on the priestly blessing from Numbers 6 and gave a word to our graduating seniors before the church took time to pray over each of them. When You Don't Know What To Say Mikinzi Rambo
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Teach Us to Pray: A Deeper Understanding of the Lord's Prayer On May 11, 2026, the sermon from Skycrest Community Church delved into the profound depths of the Lord's Prayer, focusing on its practical application in the lives of believers. This exploration centered on three levels of resistance against temptation, as taught by Jesus, and how these principles guide us in our spiritual journey. The Structure of the Lord's Prayer The Lord's Prayer, as presented by Jesus, begins with praise and a declaration of commitment to God's vision. It then transitions to addressing our needs—past, present, and future. This prayer is not just a ritualistic recitation but a roadmap for living a life aligned with God's will. Matthew 6:13: "Lead Us Not into Temptation" The sermon highlighted the petition, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" as a crucial component of the prayer. This plea is not about God tempting us, as clarified in James 1:13-15, which states that God does not tempt anyone. Instead, it's a request for guidance away from situations where our resolve might falter. Three Levels of Resistance The sermon outlined three levels of resistance to temptation: Self-Discipline This is the first line of defense, where we exercise self-control to avoid sin. Some temptations require more discipline than others, depending on our personal weaknesses and strengths. For example, the speaker humorously noted their lack of temptation towards something like crystal meth, emphasizing that self-discipline is about making conscious choices. Prayer for Guidance The second level involves actively praying for God's guidance to steer us away from tempting situations. This aligns with the petition in the Lord's Prayer, acknowledging our limitations and seeking divine intervention to avoid paths that might lead us astray. Divine Deliverance The final level of resistance is seeking deliverance from God when we find ourselves ensnared by sin. This requires humility, recognizing our failures and asking for God's intervention to break free from the enemy's grasp. The sermon referenced John 6:39, emphasizing Jesus' commitment to rescue us. Humility and Repentance A significant theme was the necessity of humility in prayer. Acknowledging our shortcomings and seeking God's help is crucial in overcoming sin. The sermon encouraged believers to maintain a heart of repentance, ready to turn back to God and accept His deliverance. Conclusion In conclusion, the sermon reinforced the importance of the Lord's Prayer as a tool for spiritual resilience. By understanding and applying its teachings, believers can navigate the challenges of life, resist temptation, and remain steadfast in their faith. The message was a reminder that while the battle against sin is ongoing, we are not alone. With God's guidance and deliverance, we can overcome and live a life that reflects His kingdom. As we continue to seek God's will in our lives, may we find strength in prayer and the assurance that God is with us, ready to guide, protect, and deliver. This understanding of prayer is indeed a truth worth living.
Your Kingdom Come, Your Will Be Done Introduction In this message, Coleton walks through one of the most important lines in the Lord's Prayer: “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:10 Jesus is not giving His followers empty religious words to repeat. He is teaching them how to partner with God in the renewal of the world. This prayer is not passive resignation. It is an invitation into participation with God. Coleton structures the sermon around three major questions: What is Jesus telling us to ask for? Why doesn't God just do it without our prayers? What does this mean for our prayers practically? Throughout the message, Coleton emphasizes a central truth: prayer matters because God has chosen to work through the prayers of His people. 1. What Is Jesus Telling Us to Ask For? We Are Asking for God's Kingdom and God's Will Coleton explains that Jesus teaches us to pray for two connected realities: God's Kingdom to come God's will to be done These cannot be separated. God's Kingdom is the place where God's will is actually happening. Coleton uses a quote from Dallas Willard to explain this idea clearly: “God's own ‘kingdom,' or ‘rule,' is the range of His effective will, where what He wants done is done.” — Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy The sermon explains that every person has a small “kingdom” — a sphere where their choices shape reality. God's Kingdom is the sphere where His desires, purposes, goodness, and authority reign completely. So when Jesus teaches us to pray, “Your kingdom come,” He is teaching us to pray: Let more of what God wants happen here. Let more of heaven invade earth. Let the qualities of God's reign spread into places where they are absent. Coleton says we see the qualities of God's Kingdom most clearly in Jesus. When Jesus walked the earth, He announced: “The Kingdom of God has come upon you.” Then He demonstrated what that Kingdom looked like. Coleton walks through example after example from the Gospels: Abundance Where There Was Scarcity John 2 Mark 6 Jesus multiplies provision and turns lack into overflowing abundance. Truth Where There Was Hypocrisy John 3 Matthew 23 Jesus exposes false religion and reveals truth that leads to life. Freedom Where There Was Bondage Mark 5 Jesus delivers people oppressed by evil and restores them to wholeness. Healing Where There Was Disease Matthew 8 Mark 5 The Kingdom of God pushes back sickness and brokenness. Restoration Where There Was Alienation John 4 Jesus restores dignity and relationship to the Samaritan woman. Hospitality Where There Was Hatred Luke 19 Jesus welcomes Zacchaeus when everyone else rejected him. Life Where There Was Death John 11 Jesus raises Lazarus and reveals that death does not get the final word. Hope Where There Was Despair Mark 5 Jesus enters impossible situations and brings hope again. Love Where There Was Hatred Acts 9 The Gospel transforms persecutors into followers of Jesus. Justice Where There Was Oppression Acts 16 God breaks chains and overturns systems of darkness. Coleton repeatedly reminds the church: When Jesus extended the Kingdom, He extended these qualities into people's lives. So praying “Your Kingdom come” means praying: Bring freedom here. Bring healing here. Bring justice here. Bring peace here. Bring restoration here. Bring hope here. This prayer is asking for the realities of heaven to invade earth. 2. Why Doesn't God Just Do It Without Our Prayers? This becomes the heart of the sermon. Coleton addresses a question many people quietly wrestle with: “If God is sovereign, why does prayer matter at all?” His answer is simple and profound: Because God has sovereignly chosen to work through people. God Has Always Worked Through Human Partnership Coleton goes back to Genesis. God did not need Adam and Eve to tend the garden. He could have done everything Himself. Yet He intentionally gave humanity responsibility, authority, and participation. God chose partnership. Coleton quotes Dallas Willard again: “We are meant to exercise our ‘rule' only in union with God, as He acts with us.” Human beings were designed to work alongside God in stewarding creation. Prayer is part of that design. Prayer Is Not an Afterthought — It Is Part of the Way God Ordered the World Coleton strongly emphasizes: God does not need intercessors. He chooses intercessors. He quotes Tyler Staton: “Prayer is the means by which we push back the curse that's infected the world and infected us.” This is one of the central ideas of the sermon: Prayer is how God has chosen for His Kingdom to advance. Coleton gives practical analogies: God could have nourished us without food — but He chose food. God could have sustained life without oxygen and blood — but He chose those means. God could have worked without prayer — but He chose prayer. Prayer is not magic. Prayer is partnership. Your Prayers Actually Matter Coleton passionately confronts the idea that prayer changes nothing. He says believing prayer does not matter fundamentally misunderstands how God designed the world. He points to passages showing the consequences of prayerlessness: We Miss Things When We Don't Pray 2 Chronicles 16:9 We Make Bad Decisions Without Seeking God Joshua 9:14 Some Things Do Not Happen Apart From Prayer Mark 9:29 Coleton makes an important clarification: This is not because God is angry or withholding. It is because this is the structure God established. He quotes Charles Spurgeon: “If you may have everything by asking, and nothing without asking, I beg you to see how absolutely vital prayer is.” Even Jesus intercedes now for believers. If prayer did not matter, Jesus would not still be praying. 3. What This Means for Our Prayers There Is Power in Your Praying Coleton wants believers to leave with confidence. Not confidence in themselves. Not confidence in perfect wording. Confidence that God has chosen to work through prayer. He says: Prayer works powerfully because God has set it up that way. Coleton quotes Skye Jethani: “We are active participants with God in the writing, directing, design, and action that unfolds.” Prayer is participation in God's work in the world. Because of that, believers should actually expect God to move when they pray. Leonard Ravenhill's quote drives this home: “You cannot estimate the power of prayer… because He has committed Himself to answer it.” 4. Practical Ways to Pray “Your Kingdom Come” Coleton closes the sermon with deeply practical guidance. Pray for Kingdom Qualities Where They Are Missing He encourages believers to look for brokenness and pray specifically for God's Kingdom to invade those places. Tyler Staton's quote summarizes this beautifully: “Ask for Jesus to come anywhere and everywhere you know God's kingdom of love and peace is lacking.” Examples: Pray for friends who do not know Jesus. Pray for healing. Pray for Memphis. Pray for injustice. Pray for broken families. Pray for mental and emotional struggles. Coleton encourages practices like: Prayer walks Prayer drives People watching and praying Using reminders like a “Pray for Memphis” hat Prayer becomes a lifestyle of seeing the world through the eyes of God's Kingdom. Pray the Promises of God Coleton teaches believers to pray Scripture because God is faithful to His promises. He quotes John Wesley: “The best we can say to God in prayer is, what he hath said to us.” He then walks through promises believers can pray confidently: Comfort “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4 Freedom and New Life “If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 Peace Philippians 4:6–7 Greater Works John 14:12 Rest Matthew 11:28–29 Provision Matthew 6:33 Philippians 4:19 Malachi 3:10 Wisdom James 1:5 Restoration Joel 2:25–26 Isaiah 61:3–4 Strength 2 Corinthians 12:9 Isaiah 40:31 Coleton encourages believers to pray these promises boldly because they reveal God's heart and His Kingdom. Pray for the Things Jesus Did Coleton says the Gospels reveal what the Kingdom of God looks like. So believers should read about Jesus: healing, restoring, forgiving, freeing, reconciling, and pray for those same Kingdom realities to happen around them today. Trust God When Prayers Aren't Answered the Way You Want Coleton ends with honesty and pastoral wisdom. Not every prayer is answered the way we expect. Paul prayed for the “thorn in the flesh” to leave, but God said: “My grace is sufficient for you.” Sometimes God's Kingdom advances through weakness rather than the removal of suffering. Coleton reminds the church: The apostles experienced miracles. The apostles also experienced tragedy. Yet they never stopped believing in prayer. The call of the believer is not to understand everything perfectly, but to trust God in the mystery. Final Challenge Coleton closes by bringing everything back to one foundational truth: Prayer has power because this is how God designed the world to function. Just as: food satisfies hunger, water quenches thirst, oxygen sustains life, God has chosen prayer as one of the primary ways His Kingdom advances in the earth. Jesus teaches His followers to pray because prayer truly matters. Discipleship Group Questions When you hear the phrase “Your Kingdom come,” what do you naturally think about, and how did this message expand your understanding of it? Which “Kingdom quality” from Jesus' ministry (healing, restoration, justice, freedom, hope, etc.) do you most long to see break into your own life or your community right now? Why do you think God chose to work through human partnership and prayer instead of simply doing everything Himself? What keeps you from believing your prayers truly matter, and how did this sermon challenge that mindset? What is one practical way you can begin intentionally praying for God's Kingdom to come in Memphis, your family, your workplace, or your neighborhood this week? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus What if prayer is not about escaping the world, but partnering with God to heal it? Jesus taught that God's Kingdom brings hope where there is despair, healing where there is brokenness, and love where there is hatred—and He invites ordinary people to become part of that renewal.
Rev. Timothy Price, Luke 11:1, 5-13
Jason McClellan Luke 11:1-13 Guest Speaker
Betty examines the parable of the persistent widow to discuss the invitation we all have to be changed by our prayer life as we learn to walk in “eye contact” with our Creator. Don't Give Up When Answers Delay Betty Hayes
Message from Perry Marshall on May 10, 2026
What is your relationship to prayer?Luke 11:1-4Luke 11:2-3Luke 11:4A relationship with God will always affect your relationship with others.How similar/different is this prayer to yours?Me Focused vs. We FocusedLuke 11:5-6Luke 11:7-10‘Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.'The more you ask of God, the more you honor Him.Luke 11:11-13God's presence is the answer.Psalms 8:4What are you listening for?
Teach Us to Pray: Forgiveness in Prayer In this episode of "Truth Worth Living," we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus on prayer, specifically focusing on the theme of forgiveness as illustrated in the Lord's Prayer. This teaching is rooted in the passage from Matthew 6:12: "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." Understanding Forgiveness in Prayer The sermon begins by emphasizing that the prayer for forgiveness is a key component of maintaining a vibrant relationship with God. Jesus' instruction to ask for forgiveness is not merely about seeking pardon for our own sins but is also about acknowledging our need to forgive others. This dual aspect of forgiveness is crucial for sustaining both our spiritual and earthly relationships. The Vertical and Horizontal Dimensions of Forgiveness Vertical Forgiveness: This is our direct relationship with God. The prayer for forgiveness is a dialogue between God's children and their heavenly Father, seeking to mend and maintain this divine connection. As referenced in Psalm 51, where David acknowledges his sins against God, the focus is on the divine forgiveness that only God can grant. Horizontal Forgiveness: This involves our interactions with others. Jesus' teaching extends beyond personal absolution to include forgiving those who have wronged us. This aspect of forgiveness is essential for peace and unity within the community of believers. The Importance of Forgiving Others Pastor Chris highlights a critical insight from the prayer: while we ask God to forgive our debts, we are expected to forgive our debtors. This distinction underscores the relational aspect of forgiveness. Forgiving others is not about condoning sin but about choosing to love and reconcile with those who have hurt us. Sin is God's to Judge: While sin affects human relationships, it is ultimately against God, as illustrated by David's confession in Psalm 51. Therefore, it is God's prerogative to deal with sin, and our role is to forgive the person, not the sin. Reflecting the Father's Heart: The act of forgiving others mirrors the heart of God, as demonstrated in the parable of the Prodigal Son. The father's eagerness to forgive and restore his son before he even confesses his sins is a powerful image of divine grace. By forgiving others, we extend God's love and grace, expanding His kingdom. Forgiveness as a Path to Peace Forgiveness is not only a divine mandate but also a pathway to peace. When believers forgive, they contribute to the unity and harmony of the church community. This reflects God's desire for His children to live in love and peace with one another. Conclusion The message concludes with a powerful reminder that God values people over sin. Our willingness to forgive others demonstrates our alignment with God's priorities and our commitment to living out His love in our daily lives. As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace forgiveness as a fundamental truth worth living. In closing, the sermon encourages us to seek God's blessing and peace in our lives, urging us to reflect His love in our interactions with others. This teaching on forgiveness is not just a spiritual exercise but a transformative practice that shapes our relationships and our faith journey.
Hallowed Be Your Name Learning to Pray with Wonder, Confidence, and Peace Jesus does something deeply intentional in the Lord's Prayer. Before He teaches His followers to ask God for anything, He teaches them to remember who God is. Prayer is not meant to begin with panic, requests, or anxiety—it begins with worship. Coleton explains that when Jesus says, “Hallowed be Your name,” He is teaching us to fill our minds and hearts with the greatness, faithfulness, and power of God before we ever bring Him our needs. This message is an invitation to become people who truly pray—not mechanically, not cautiously, but with boldness, awe, confidence, and trust. “Our Father in Heaven” — Remember Who You're Talking To Matthew 6:9–13 “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name…'” Coleton begins by reminding the church why this prayer series matters so much to him personally. About ten years ago, he began pursuing a deeper prayer life because he wanted prayer to become more than a religious duty—he wanted to love it. During that journey, one quote changed the way he viewed prayer forever. Quote “Satan dreads nothing but prayer. His one concern is to keep the saints from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, he mocks our wisdom, but he trembles when we pray.” — Samuel Chadwick That quote helped Coleton realize why prayer often feels difficult. The enemy is not intimidated by human strength, intelligence, or activity. He trembles at the power of God accessed through prayer. Prayer matters because God moves through it. Last week's focus in the series was the phrase “Our Father in heaven.” Jesus first teaches us that prayer begins by remembering who we are talking to: not a distant force, but a loving Father who welcomes His children. Now Jesus takes us one step further. “Hallowed Be Your Name” — Prayer Begins with Worship Coleton explains that “hallowed” means to treat God's name as holy, weighty, glorious, and worthy of worship. Quote “‘Hallowed be your name' means ‘let [your name] be regarded as holy.' It is not so much a petition as an act of worship; the speaker, by his words, exalts the holiness of God.” — Tremper Longman III Quote “Hallowing is an active kind of praying—honoring, adoring, and naming the greatness of God. While ‘Our Father' is a reminder of God's intimacy; ‘hallowed' is a reminder of His incomprehensible greatness.” — Tyler Staton Coleton explains that hallowing God's name looks like: Saying what is true about God Remembering what He has done Repeating what He has promised Declaring what is possible with Him This kind of prayer fills the heart with worship before requests are ever made. The Psalms Show Us What Hallowing Looks Like Psalm 44 — Remembering God's Power Scripture “With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our ancestors… it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face…” — Psalm 44:2–3 The psalmist spends enormous time recounting God's past faithfulness. He talks about victories God gave, enemies God defeated, and promises God fulfilled. Coleton points out something fascinating: much of this prayer is telling God things He already knows. Why? Not because God needs reminding—but because we do. We forget who He is. We forget what He has done. We forget His power, His promises, and His faithfulness. Hallowing God's name recenters the soul. 1. Hallowing His Name Expands Our Vision of What Is Possible One of the main effects of worshipful prayer is that it stretches our faith. Quote “The wonderful thing about praying is that you leave a world of not being able to do something and enter into God's realm where everything is possible. He specializes in the impossible.” — Corrie ten Boom Coleton says many Christians pray extremely safe prayers: “Keep them safe.” “Help them have a good day.” “Bless this meal.” Those prayers are not wrong—but if we truly believe we are speaking to the God of the impossible, why do we so rarely ask Him for impossible things? Hallowing His name enlarges our imagination for what God can do. Hezekiah's Prayer — Worship Before Deliverance Scripture 2 Kings 19:14–19 King Hezekiah is surrounded by an enormous Assyrian army. Humanly speaking, defeat seems certain. But notice how he prays: “Lord, the God of Israel… you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth…” Before asking for rescue, Hezekiah hallows God's name. He reminds himself that Assyria may be powerful, but God rules every kingdom on earth. Only after worship does he ask for deliverance. Coleton explains that worship gave Hezekiah courage to pray boldly in an impossible situation. The Apostles in Acts 4 — Worship Produces Boldness Scripture Acts 4:24–30 After Peter and John are arrested and threatened, the disciples gather to pray. What is shocking is what they don't pray for. They do not pray for safety. They do not pray for persecution to stop. Instead they pray: “Enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders…” Why? Because they began by hallowing God's name. They remembered that God is sovereign, powerful, and able to use evil for good. Worship gave them courage. Even Jesus Prayed This Way Scripture Mark 14:36 “Abba, Father… everything is possible for you.” In Gethsemane, Jesus Himself begins by declaring what is true about the Father: everything is possible for Him. Coleton emphasizes that hallowing God's name even led Jesus to pray honestly and boldly. Hallowing Changes the Way We Pray Coleton gives vivid examples of what this can look like in everyday life. Instead of praying weak, hopeless prayers, we pray with remembrance: “You are the God who split the Red Sea—make a way for me.” “You heard Hannah's prayer after years of waiting—hear mine too.” “You turned Saul into Paul—change this person's heart.” “You used evil for Joseph's good—redeem this painful situation.” Hallowing God's name teaches us to pray according to God's character and history. Asking Big Things Honors God Quote “Our God is so good, gracious, and powerful that we can never ask or assume too much of him. We don't offend Him with large requests; we offend Him with small ones!” — J.D. Greear Coleton shares the story of Alexander the Great generously granting a soldier's extravagant request because the request honored both his wealth and generosity. In the same way, bold prayer honors God because it assumes He is both powerful and good. 2. Hallowing His Name Produces Peace, Rest, and Confidence Hallowing God's name does not only increase boldness—it also calms fear. Psalm 46 — Worship Leads to Fearlessness Scripture “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1 Then comes the result: “Therefore we will not fear…” — Psalm 46:2 The psalmist's peace flows from remembering who God is. Coleton explains that worship anchors the soul in unstable moments. Psalm 23 — David's Confidence Came from God's Character Scripture “The Lord is my shepherd…” Outcome: “I lack nothing.” Scripture “You are with me…” Outcome: “I will fear no evil.” David's peace was connected to his remembrance of God's presence and care. Coleton and Rainey's Story of Fear and Faith Coleton shares a deeply personal moment when someone falsely accused him and tried to get him fired. Sitting in the car devastated, he and Rainey began hallowing God's name together. They remembered: God sustaining their long-distance relationship God healing their relationship during difficult seasons God opening ministry doors unexpectedly God never once failing them As they remembered God's faithfulness, peace slowly replaced fear. Their conclusion became: “If God has been faithful before, He will be faithful again.” And God ultimately took care of them. Hallowing God's Name in Real Life Coleton gives practical examples of how worship reshapes fear: When Facing Enemies God used Saul's attacks to prepare David for kingship. No enemy can stop God's plan. When Struggling with Sin God promises grace greater than our failures. Scripture “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” When Worried About Provision Jesus said the Father cares for birds and flowers—and values His children far more. When Life Feels Chaotic God still reigns over nations and history. When Facing Death Jesus transformed death from ultimate loss into the doorway to eternal life. Hallowing His name teaches believers to trust God in every circumstance. Jesus Prepares Us Before We Ask Coleton points out something powerful in the Lord's Prayer: Jesus has not told us to ask for anything yet. Before requests come: We remember He is Father. We remember He is holy. We remember His power. We remember His faithfulness. Only then are we prepared to pray boldly and trustingly. Practical Ways to Practice Hallowing His Name 1. Begin Prayer with Worship Coleton encourages using worship music to shape the heart before praying. Songs mentioned: “Good Plans” — Red Rocks Worship “Same God” — Elevation Worship “Won't Stop Now” — Elevation Worship “Do It Again” — Elevation Worship “I Believe” — Charity Gayle “The Truth” — Megan Woods “Don't Fight Alone” — Jon Reddick 2. Remember God's Promises in Scripture The Bible teaches us what God has done before so we can trust what He will do again. Coleton emphasizes that Scripture fuels confident prayer. 3. Remember God's Faithfulness in Your Own Life Reflect on: Ways God provided Times He protected Seasons He healed Moments He restored Remembering past faithfulness strengthens present trust. 4. Practice Gratitude Coleton references One Thousand Gifts and how gratitude journals helped cultivate trust in God's faithfulness. The more we notice God's goodness, the easier it becomes to trust Him for impossible things. Closing Challenge Quote “Powerful prayer begins with adoration.” — Tyler Staton The heart of this sermon is simple but transformative: Jesus wants His people to pray with power. And powerful prayer begins by hallowing the name of God—remembering who He is, what He has done, and what is still possible with Him. Discipleship Group Questions Why do you think Jesus teaches us to worship before asking for things in prayer? How could that reshape your prayer life? What are some “safe prayers” you tend to pray? What impossible or faith-filled prayers might God be inviting you to begin praying? Which story or example from this sermon encouraged you the most personally, and why? Where have you seen God's faithfulness in your own past? How can remembering those moments strengthen your trust in your current season? What practical step can you take this week to begin “hallowing His name” more intentionally in prayer? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus Christianity is not about pretending to be strong—it's about discovering that there is a God so loving, powerful, and faithful that you can bring Him your impossible situations and your deepest fears. Jesus teaches us that prayer is not talking into the dark, but speaking to a Father who hears, cares, and still changes lives today.
Lord, Teach Us to Pray by Bishop Joaquin G. Molina