Main verse: Matthew 6:19-34

Reference Book: The Disciples’ Prayer by John MacArthur

Good morning

            Jesus said to the crowd, “The father knows what you need before you even ask” (Matthew 6:8) and in the same breath said, “Ask and you shall receive …” (Matthew 7:7). Taken out of context, we would either say, “If God knows what I need, why do I need to ask for it?” or “Why is my McDonald’s request not sitting at the table along with an ice-cold beer?”. We pray for bread and drink because it is a baseline physiological need (Maslow, 1940). When Jesus used the term, “Bread” he was not talking about the physical sense, he was referring to the spiritual or, “Soul” needs (Moral Revolution, 2016).  The sermon on the mount has references to Judah’s exile in 586, the events that preceded it, and how the exile played out well into the first century which must have been painful (Haggai 1:1-6, 2 Kings 25:1-6, Deuteronomy 28:15-68); in essence, God’s bread refers to the experiences from days, weeks, months, or years ago coupled with God’s grace, mercy, wisdom, and/or strength we can face the struggles, pains, and sorrows today which will provide a bright hope for tomorrow as the song, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” suggests (Chisholm, 1860).

            When I was in the military years ago, we were required to write and review, “Lessons Learned” after each ship’s evolution; these lessons helped the ship’s company to see what happened, how were the issues addressed, what needs to be corrected, and what went well. When we ask the Lord for our “Daily Bread”, we are asking for His help and by proxy His presence over our lives which “Hallows His name” so He becomes the third strand of our lives” (Ecclesiastes 4:11-12, MacArthur 1986 P 112). My encouragement for you today is when you are in prayer, to ask for your needs, review your past to see how the Lord has gotten you through so you will be prepared to face today. Remember to keep your armor on and strengthen it each day so you will be prepared for the battle.

I.H.S.

MK

All my writings are at

Mike’s Encouragement

2026 Mike’s Encouragement ®