I remember the first time I read this verse and thought, "Well, if the LORD can teach them to pray. He can teach me, too."
I started boldly and confidently asking God in my young 20's to teach me how to pray. Honestly, I was a broken mess, but I wanted to honor God and do His will.
Today, as I study this passage about the disciples learning how to pray, I am caught by the phrase "shameless audacity in the NIV."
When I look at the order of what Jesus said about prayer, I notice two things I must never forget. Prayer starts with worship and a kingdom mindset. We must get this right!
Worship Him!
Our Father, holy is Your Name.
Kingdom Mindset!
Your kingdom come, Your will be done.
THEN our bold confidence can be shameless and audacious because it first begins with the right mindset.
Shameless audacity has been translated in so many ways...
Persistent
Impudence
Importunity
The Bible Stock Exchange suggests that this type of prayer is willing to disturb the peace. It ignores the cultural consideration and puts our friends and neighbors in the awkward situation of having to save face.
The cool part is that with God, I can go without shame with this boldness because HE LOVES TO GIVE GOOD GIFTS and THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Again, here is the crux. This is not for us to get what we want. Prayer is a relationship that is full of worship and kingdom mindedness. Then it flows from a holy mindset. We will discover that what we need to talk about will have the good and pleasing will of God. It will be full of forgiveness, repentance, and a righteous pursuit. This becomes the most important sustenance and nourishment for our daily bread.
Yes, LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY! Show us how to approach You with shameless audacity that is actively seeking You to receive and know Your good and perfect will. In Jesus' name, amen
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