Discussion Guide
As we continue this series on prayer and fasting, we are looking closely at the example Jesus gave us in Matthew 6 through what we commonly call The Lord’s Prayer. Many people believe prayer matters yet feel intimidated by it—unsure how to pray or afraid of doing it “wrong.” Jesus did not give us a script to repeat, but a framework, pattern, and guide to shape how we pray. When prayer and fasting are practiced together, they bring alignment—aligning our hearts, desires, and will with God. If we fast without prayer, we’ve missed the point. Together, prayer and fasting create space for God to work in us.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. What’s the most awkward time you’ve ever been asked to pray out loud? Where do you pray most often? (Example: outside, shower, car, quiet room, etc)
2. Read Matthew 6:7. Why do you think Jesus cared so much about how we pray and not just that we pray? According to Jesus, what should we not do when we pray? What do “empty phrases” or “many words” look like in today’s culture?
3. Alignment of Identity Read Matthew 6:9-13. What does it mean to approach God as Father? How does knowing God as a loving Father shape the way we pray?
4. Alignment in Worship Read Isaiah 43:20-21. What does it mean to “hallow” God’s name? How is worship reflected in prayer, not just in singing? Why is it important to pause and acknowledge God’s holiness before bringing our requests?
5. Alignment of Surrender Read Luke 22:42. Have you ever felt unsure how to pray or worried about praying the “right way”? Why is alignment with God’s will more powerful than simply asking God to bless our plans? Where do you most struggle to surrender control to God?
6. Alignment on Dependence Read Philippians 4:19. What does “daily bread” teach us about dependence on God? Why is it difficult to trust God with daily needs instead of long-term security? What might it look like to rely on God one day at a time?
7. Alignment on Grace Read Psalm 32:3-5. What was David experiencing before he confessed his sin? Why is it easier to admit we are sinners in general, but harder to confess specific sins to God? How does unforgiveness toward others disrupt our spiritual alignment?
8. Alignment for Guidance Read Matthew 6:13. Why do you think Jesus includes guidance and protection at the end of this prayer? How does inviting God to “lead us” and “deliver us” shape the choices we make? Where in your life do you need to rely on God’s guidance more?
Action Step: Ask God to show you something new about your prayer life this week. Are you seeking your agenda or God’s will? What does God want for you? Be real with God about any sin you are struggling with and confess it specifically. If you haven’t considered a fast, then reconsider and ask God to show you what he would have you give up to draw closer to Him.
Optional - Deeper Dive: Read Isaiah 58:6–9. What kind of fasting does God desire? How does this passage challenge common misunderstandings about fasting? What connections do you see between fasting, prayer, and transformed living?