The Lord's Prayer
Q36. What does this mean?
God's good and gracious will is done even without our prayer. But we pray that it will be done among us too. How is God's will done? It is done when God stops every evil plan of the devil, the world, and our own sinful nature, which try to keep us from honoring God's name or letting his kingdom come. And it is done when God keeps us strong in his Word and in faith until we die. This is his good and gracious will.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”
Ephesians 1:11
“In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”
2 Thessalonians 3:3
“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”
1 John 2:15–17
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Who are the three enemies Luther says fight against God's will?
- 2
What does God do to stop these enemies?
- 3
How does it help you to know that God's will gets done even when enemies fight against it?
Illustration
A castle under siege has enemies throwing everything they can at the walls. The devil, the world, and your own sinful nature are constantly attacking, trying to pull you away from God's Word and faith. But the King inside the castle is stronger than every army outside. God breaks every evil plan. He keeps you strong. And he will hold the walls until the very end.
Application
When you feel tempted this week or when it seems like everything is pulling you away from what is right, pray the Third Petition: "Your will be done." Ask God to crush the plans of the devil, the world, and your sinful nature, and to keep you strong in his Word until he brings you home.
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)