What does it mean to pray for “daily bread”?

The third phrase in Jesus’ model prayer is:

“…Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11 NKJV

In the ancient world, acquiring bread for the day was more than a trip to the store. The irregularity of work and uncertainty of the times made it daily question. However, even when bread is plentiful, (like the Hebrews in the desert getting manna daily), there is a key principle to be remembered: gratefulness. It’s an acknowledgement of dependence on God.

The Hebrews were excited and thankful for the manna to begin with, but quickly slipped into an ungrateful attitude and desired more. God’s hand may not deliver the exact menu hoped for, but the same hand also mends a broken heart, blocks the enemy’s attacks, guides through dark times, and strengthens during weakness. It’s a steady hand and one to be reached for daily.

Do you consider today a provision of the Lord? Contentment in Him is a place of peace and soul-deep satisfaction. “Give us this day our daily bread…”