Book of Matthew - Chapter 6 - Verse 11

When Jesus taught his disciples how to pray, he included the phrase "Give us this day our daily bread." This simple yet profound line has deep spiritual significance. In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of trust and dependence on God for our daily provision. It serves as a reminder that God is our ultimate provider, sustaining us with the physical nourishment we need to survive each day. The term "daily bread" can be interpreted in both a literal and symbolic sense. On a literal level, it refers to the basic sustenance we need to sustain our bodies. Symbolically, it can also represent the spiritual nourishment we require to sustain our souls, such as God's word and grace. By praying for our daily bread, we acknowledge our reliance on God for all aspects of our lives, both physical and spiritual. It teaches us to live in the present moment and trust that God will provide for our needs each day.

When interpreting the phrase "Give us this day our daily bread" from the Lord's Prayer, many theologians focus on the concept of dependency on God for sustenance. The word "bread" in this context goes beyond its literal meaning of food for physical nourishment; it also represents God's provision for our daily needs. The term "daily" can be translated from the Greek word "epiousios," which some scholars suggest can be interpreted as "necessary" or "essential." This highlights the importance of seeking God's provision for our basic needs each day, recognizing our reliance on Him for sustenance. Additionally, this verse emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and trusting God to provide for our needs on a daily basis. In a broader theological sense, this phrase encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual nourishment by seeking God's presence daily through prayer and studying His word, just as we seek daily sustenance for our physical bodies. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of our dependence on God for all aspects of our lives, both material and spiritual.