Prayer and Spiritual Growth

What Is the Lord's Prayer and How Should I Use It?

The Lord's Prayer, given by Jesus in Matthew 6:9-13, is both a model for structuring personal prayer and a prayer that can be prayed directly, covering worship, submission to God's will, daily needs, forgiveness, and protection from temptation.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Prayer

Biblical explanation

Jesus introduced this prayer by instructing His disciples to pray “after this manner” (), suggesting a pattern rather than a rigid, exclusive formula. It begins with worship of God's holy name, moves to submission to His kingdom and will, then addresses practical daily needs, the need for forgiveness both received and extended, and a request for protection from temptation and evil. Using this prayer as a template—expanding each phrase with personal, specific requests—helps believers develop a balanced prayer life that includes adoration, submission, provision, confession, and protection, rather than prayer that consists only of requests. It remains one of the most widely used and treasured prayers in Christian devotion.

In brief

Jesus introduced this prayer by instructing His disciples to pray “after this manner” (), suggesting a pattern rather than a rigid, exclusive formula.

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.