Heidelberg Catechism, Lord’s Day 45 « Daily ConfessionQ. 116. Why is prayer necessary for christians?
A. Because it is the chief part of thankfulness which God requires of us: [a] and also, because God will give his grace and Holy Spirit to those only, who with sincere desires continually ask them of him, and are thankful for them. [b]
Q. 117. What are the requisites of that prayer, which is acceptable to God, and which he will hear?
A. First, that we from the heart pray [a] to the one true God only, who has manifested himself in his word, [b] for all things, he has commanded us to ask of him; [c] secondly, that we rightly and thoroughly know our need and misery, [d] that so we may deeply humble ourselves in the presence of his divine majesty; [e] thirdly, that we be fully persuaded that he, notwithstanding that we are unworthy of it, will, for the sake of Christ our Lord, certainly hear our prayer, [f] as he has promised us in his word. [g]
Q. 118. What has God commanded us to ask of him?
A. All things necessary for soul and body; which Christ our Lord has comprised in that prayer he himself has taught us. James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Matt.6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Q. 119. What are the words of that prayer? [a]
A. Our Father which art in heaven, 1 Hallowed be thy name. 2 Thy kingdom come. 3 Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. 4 Give us this day our daily bread. 5 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 6 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
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