Matthew 6:11

Matthew 6:11, "Give us this day our daily bread," is a foundational petition within what is commonly known as the Lord's Prayer, as taught by Jesus Christ during His Sermon on the Mount. This simple yet profound request encapsulates a deep theological truth about human dependence on divine provision.

Context

This verse is nestled within Jesus' instructions on prayer, following His admonition against hypocritical public prayers (Matthew 6:5) and vain repetitions (Matthew 6:7). Before teaching this model prayer, Jesus assures His disciples that their Heavenly Father already knows what they need before they ask (Matthew 6:8). This petition for "daily bread" therefore isn't about informing God, but about aligning the human heart with a posture of humility and reliance upon Him for even the most basic necessities of life.

Key Themes

• Dependence on God: The phrase "Give us" immediately establishes God as the ultimate provider for all human needs. It is an acknowledgment that humanity is not self-sufficient but relies entirely on divine grace for sustenance.
• Daily Provision: The emphasis on "this day" and "daily bread" highlights God's ongoing, moment-by-moment care. It teaches us to seek provision for the present, fostering trust rather than anxiety about the future, a theme Jesus elaborates on later in the same chapter (Matthew 6:34).
• Humility and Contentment: Asking for "bread" (a basic staple) rather than luxuries or excessive wealth promotes humility and contentment with what is sufficient. It encourages a focus on essential needs over material greed.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "daily" (epiousios) is unique to the Lord's Prayer in Matthew and Luke (Luke 11:3) and has been a subject of much scholarly discussion. While its precise etymology is debated, common interpretations include:

• "For the coming day" or "for tomorrow"
• "Sufficient for the day" or "necessary for existence"

Regardless of the exact nuance, the core meaning points to sustenance that is sufficient and immediate, whether for the current day or the immediate future, reinforcing the idea of trusting God for ongoing, consistent provision rather than stockpiling or worrying.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful lessons for contemporary life:

• It reminds us to cultivate a spirit of daily dependence on God for all our needs, both physical and spiritual.
• It serves as an antidote to anxiety, encouraging us to trust God for today's provisions rather than being overwhelmed by tomorrow's uncertainties.
• It promotes gratitude for the basic necessities of life, shifting focus from what we lack to what God faithfully provides.
• It encourages a communal spirit ("Give us"), reminding us that our daily bread is often received through the labor and provision of others, and implies a responsibility to share with those who lack.