Come Follow Me for Individuals and Families
New Testament Lesson #9
Matthew 6–7
So much to think about in the Sermon on the Mount, as we continue our study of these teachings of the Savior this week. The first part is on prayer. We do it so often, with varying degrees of sincerity—if I am honest with myself—and, coincidentally, this morning I was reading a talk by President Nelson from October 2003 General Conference entitled “Sweet Power of Prayer.” I am also reading his biography which was written about the same time. President Nelson was a ground-breaking heart surgeon, I believe, principally because of his ability to communicate with our Heavenly Father through prayer. Here is an excerpt:
Jesus taught us how [to pray]. We pray to our Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Ghost. This is the “true order of prayer,” in contrast to “vain repetitions” or recitations given to “be seen of men.” . . . Jesus revealed that we pray to a wise Father who knows what things we have need of, before we ask Him. . . . We should pray in accord with the will of our Heavenly Father. He wants to test us, to strengthen us, and to help us achieve our full potential. When the Prophet Joseph Smith was held in Liberty Jail, he pled for relief. His prayers were answered with an explanation: “All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”[1]
In Relief Society last Sunday, we talked about better communication as a method for strengthening families. Surely better communication with our Heavenly Father through prayer will strengthen our faith and give us what we need to negotiate this rocky trail through life. Interestingly, trail is an anagram of trial!
One thing about prayer that was recently clarified for me is that it is OK to pray for the same things each day. Obviously we remember those we love in our prayers every day. Sincerity is the safeguard against vain repetition. If your mind wanders, and I speak from personal experience, then perhaps a vocal personal prayer is better if you are able.
There is much more to the Sermon on the Mount, but hopefully this will lead into your study of this week’s two chapters and we can share next Sunday.
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