Hebrews 4: 14–16 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may find grace to help us in our time of need.

One of the most fundamental rights of a child is access to his father. Since you are now a child of God, you have that right. You speak to your Father through the Son. If you have listened to Christians pray, you will often hear them say something like this: “Father, I come to you in the name of Jesus…” or they will conclude a prayer with: “In Jesus name, amen.” That is an essential principle… our standing with God is not based on our own goodness or worthiness, it is based on the righteousness of Jesus, the Son.

Soon after Jesus selected his disciples he taught them how to pray. The discourse is found in Matthew 6: 5-15. The Lord’s Prayer itself is in verses 9-13. Volumes have been written about this prayer over time but, to me, it is simple and profound at the same time. It acknowledges the Father and honors his name. It sets out his divine purpose that his kingdom and will be done in the earth as it is already done in heaven. It asks for our daily needs to be met. It teaches that our sins (the daily acts of self-will, wickedness, or the good we omit to do) will be forgiven on the basis of our forgiveness of others. And it asks for strength to resist temptation and for deliverance from the power of the evil one (Satan).  Yes, him again! That Jesus would pray like this, is proof positive that this enemy is real.

Life has challenges. God knows that. As Jesus’ ministry on earth was coming to a close, he alerted his disciples to the difficulties they would face and then said: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16.33). So learn to pray to your Father. Learn the Lord’s Prayer and use it as a pattern. Greet your Father through the Son, give praise and thanks, acknowledge your willingness to have a part in the work of his kingdom in the earth and to forgive those who offend you. Then make your needs and those of your circle known and ask for his help. Pray for the ability to resist temptation and protection from Satan’s meddling.  And when you pray, believe that your prayers will be heard because Jesus is interceding for you.