A Better Way to Pray

Jesus continues: “Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive…”

This isn’t about sacrifice or getting ourselves right. It’s about knowing we are forgiven. God sees the blood of Jesus that covers us.

Then: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Because the spirit realm is real. Demons, dominions, powers—real. We need to pray: “Keep us safe.”

So what’s the structure of this prayer?

• Relationship
• Lordship
• Provision
• Forgiveness
• Spiritual reality

But so often we flip it. We start with sin. “I’m a mess.” And maybe we are. But that’s not where He wants us to begin. He wants relationship.

Romans says, “Shall we continue in sin so grace may abound? Certainly not!” That phrase in Greek is nearly a swear word. “Stop it!”

God wants freedom. Not religion, not rote prayers—but relationship.

Luke 11 continues: Jesus tells a story of persistence in prayer. “Ask, seek, knock.” He says, if we know how to give good gifts to our kids, how much more will the Father give the Holy Spirit?

That’s the point. Not just the bread—but the Spirit.

Prayer isn’t about rehearsed words. It’s a relationship.

“Hey Dad, what do You reckon about this?”
“Your kingdom come—I don’t know how to do this.”

Religion pushes us away from God. Relationship draws us close. The New Covenant is all about drawing us near.