“. . . your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10)
How should we pray? That’s what the disciples asked Jesus in Luke 11. So he showed them. The phrase in this verse fits perfectly with Jesus’ worldview. He often said that every word he spoke and action he took came straight from the Father. Jesus’ mission on earth was to do the Father’s will.
Jesus knew better than anyone that planet Earth was out of whack. He’d lived in heaven. There, God’s will always got done exactly as God wanted it and exactly when God wanted it and exactly how God wanted. Everyone there devoted themselves to obeying and pleasing God. On earth, not so much.
We can view this phrase as a plea for God to convert the earth to be like heaven – and he will do that fully one day. But it also makes sense to take this line personally. Father, please help me to do your will while I’m on earth as willingly and effectively as I would if I were in heaven with you. Change my heart so your will is accomplished in my life every day.
Think: Can you imagine our planet being a place where God is acknowledged as the king of all? Can you imagine what your life would look like if you never challenged his right to rule over you?
Pray: Thank God that he always accomplishes his will in his way and in his time. Thank him for giving you the chance to be part of his plan, and ask him to help you willingly obey him today.
Do: Write this phrase on a piece of paper and put it on your bathroom mirror (or somewhere you’ll see it every day this week): “What is God’s will for me today?”