The Upside-Down Kingdom
Most of us know we should pray. We’ve been told it’s important. We’ve heard sermons on it. We’ve even memorized the Lord’s Prayer. But if we’re honest, many of us dive into prayer without thinking. We rush in, rattle off some words, maybe ask for help on a test or patience with a sibling, and then move on with our day.
But what if we’re skipping something vital? What if the most important part of prayer happens before we even say a word?
Jesus thought so.
“Our Father Which Art in Heaven”
These words probably sound familiar. But Jesus didn’t give them to us as a memorized formula or some spiritual password to unlock God’s favor. Instead, He gave them to shape our posture—to help us prepare our hearts before we pray.
Let’s take a closer look at what these opening words are meant to remind us.
Remember: You Are Kin
Jesus starts with “Our Father.” Not “Our Judge.” Not “Our Boss.” Not even “Our Creator,” though all of those are true. He says, “Our Father.” That changes everything.
If you’ve trusted Christ, then God isn’t just up in heaven doing His thing while you try your best down here. He’s your Father. You are His child. That’s your identity.
And that identity doesn’t change with your feelings. You might feel distant, discouraged, or unworthy. But if you’ve received Jesus by faith, John 1:12 says that you have the right “to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”
He’s not just any father. He’s the perfect Father—one who is always present, always listening, and always caring.
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
1 Peter 5:7
Because He’s your Father:
- You don’t need an appointment.
- You don’t have to earn His attention.
- You don’t need to “clean up” before coming to Him.
You can come confidently—not arrogantly, but confidently. You are kin. And that changes everything about how you pray.
Remember: He Is King
But Jesus doesn’t stop with “Our Father.” He adds, “which art in heaven.”
It’s easy to treat God like a casual buddy when we forget this part. Yes, He’s close. But He’s also in heaven. He rules. He reigns. He is high and lifted up.
That means we come with awe. We don’t boss God around in prayer. We bow the knee. He’s not just our Father—He’s our King.
“The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
Psalm 103:19
He has all authority, all majesty, and all power. That should shape the way we pray.
But here’s the amazing thing: Because He’s in heaven, His power isn’t limited like ours is.
“But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.”
Psalm 115:3
When you pray, you’re not just hoping for the best. You’re talking to the One who can actually do something about it. Nothing is too hard for Him. That’s why we ask.
Confidence and Reverence—Together
So before you start your next prayer, slow down. Stop for a moment. Remind yourself:
- You are God’s child. He loves you. He sees you. He’s near.
- God is King. He is holy. He is powerful. He is worthy.
When those two realities meet in your heart—when confidence and reverence come together—that’s when real prayer begins.
Jesus doesn’t just want us to pray. He wants us to prepare. Not with rituals or fancy phrases, but with remembrance.
Next time you bow your head, don’t rush. Remember who you are. Remember who He is. Then speak.
This Article is a part of a series
The Upside-Down Kingdom
Bobby Bosler is director of Thee Generation and pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church in Fairmont, WV. He, his wife, Abi, and their four children traveled the country for 14 years in evangelism, reaching teens with the gospel and conducting revival meetings.
Our words. AI polished. This article was adapted from the author's original content using AI. We’ve used technology to clarify and adapt the message—while keeping the heart and voice the same. All articles are proofread and edited by a human.
