Most mornings I like to drink coffee, read the Bible and pray the Lord’s Prayer. I have been reading through Exodus and recently read chapter 19. Finishing the chapter, I began praying the Lord’s prayer. Then it hit me. They have a lot in common! Let’s take a look.

In the Lord’s Prayer and Exodus 19:5-6, we find remarkable similarities that reveal essential aspects of our relationship with God. Both passages emphasize holiness, the establishment of God’s kingdom, obedience to His will, and the profound truth that we are treasured possessions in His eyes. Through a closer examination of these shared themes, we can gain a deeper understanding of our identity and purpose as God’s chosen people.

Holiness: Reflecting God’s Nature

The Lord’s Prayer begins with the acknowledgment of God’s holiness with the phrase, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” By starting our prayers with reverence for God’s holiness, we acknowledge His pure and perfect nature. In Exodus 19:5, God calls the people of Israel to be a “holy nation,” set apart for Him. Both passages underscore the importance of reflecting God’s character in our lives and striving for holiness in all aspects.

As believers, we are called to pursue a life of holiness, marked by love, righteousness, and obedience to God’s commandments. By living out this distinctiveness, we become a living testimony to God’s glory and grace, drawing others closer to Him.

Kingdom: God’s Sovereign Rule

The Lord’s Prayer contains the petition, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” This plea expresses our longing for God’s kingdom to be established on Earth, signifying His reign over every aspect of our lives. Similarly, in Exodus 19:6, God designates the people of Israel as a “kingdom of priests,” intended to represent Him and His rule to the nations.

As members of God’s family, we have the privilege of participating in His kingdom. Our daily choices, actions, and attitudes should align with His will, reflecting His lordship in our lives. By actively seeking His kingdom and its righteousness, we become ambassadors of His love, peace, and justice, bringing hope and transformation to a broken world.

Obedience to God’s Will: Embracing Our Covenant

The Lord’s Prayer includes the plea, “Your will be done,” which expresses our surrender to God’s divine plan. In Exodus 19:5, God’s promise of making the Israelites His treasured possession is contingent upon their obedience to His voice and keeping His covenant.

Obedience to God’s will is not a mere obligation but a pathway to experiencing His blessings and favor. By following His guidance, we align ourselves with His purpose for our lives and open ourselves to His transformative power. God’s desire is not for blind obedience, but for a loving, intimate relationship with Him, where we willingly submit to His will, trusting in His goodness and wisdom.

Treasured Possession: Chosen and Cherished

In both passages, the concept of being God’s treasured possession stands out prominently. The Lord’s Prayer reminds us that we address God as “Our Father,” signifying our adoption into His family, making us His cherished children. Similarly, in Exodus 19:5, God calls the people of Israel His treasured possession among all the nations.

Knowing that we are treasured by God should fill our hearts with gratitude and humility. This understanding reinforces our identity and purpose, motivating us to live lives that honor and glorify Him. Recognizing our worth in His eyes empowers us to walk boldly in our faith, sharing His love and grace with others.

In the Lord’s Prayer and Exodus 19:5-6, we find helpful insights into our relationship with God. Through the themes of holiness, God’s kingdom, obedience to His will, and being His treasured possession, we discover our identity as beloved children of the Almighty. As we embrace these shared elements, let us walk in holiness, submit to His will, and spread the light of His kingdom to the dark world around us. Embracing our identity as God’s treasured possession empowers us to live happy lives with purpose and significance, impacting others with His love and grace.