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We’re most inclined to pray when there’s something we want—or need. But when we open up our prayers focused on ourselves, it’s easy to forget who we’re talking to. That’s why the Lord’s Prayer begins by reminding us of our relationship with God as our Father, and then immediately says, may your name be kept holy.
The word holy might not be something we use every day, but it simply means something that is set apart. God’s name is unlike any other name. It is worthy of our attention, our praise, and our reverence. And when God revealed his name to Moses in Exodus, he called Himself Yahweh, meaning, “I AM WHO I AM.”
That name reminds us of who God is. He is self-sufficient. He doesn’t depend on anything or anyone to be God. He is the one who created everything—from the smallest details of creation to galaxies we can’t even comprehend. His grace, mercy, love, and justice are beyond anything we can fully understand. And yet, he still invites us to know him personally. The God who is completely set apart is also the God who calls himself our Father.
So the next time you talk to God, take a moment before you bring him your problems to remind yourself who you’re talking to. Think about his name, Yahweh. Think about who God is and all he’s done. Let the greatness of God put your problems back into perspective—and let his personal nature remind you that when you pray, you’re not talking into the air. You’re talking to your Father.
Pray: God, may your name be kept holy. Thank you that I can call you Father. Help me remember who you are and honor your holiness in the way I live. Amen.