This is the second post in the sermon notes series on the Lord’s Prayer, and I found this one to be particularly interesting and somewhat thought-provoking. As always, these are just simple reflections and takeaways from the Sunday messages at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Bangor. I hope they’ll be an encouragement and a way for me to think aloud as I follow Jesus.

Your Kingdom Come, Your Will Be Done: Learning to Submit Like Jesus

As we continue our journey through Luke 11:1–4, the focus shifts to the second and third petitions of the Lord’s Prayer: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” These are not just words of hope–they are words of surrender.

To pray these lines is to long for God’s reign to break into our lives, our communities, and the whole world. It is to submit to God’s authority, even when it leads through suffering or uncertainty. It is also to join Jesus in His mission to bring transformation and light into darkness.

“Your Kingdom Come”

Jesus invites us to pray that God’s kingdom would be seen and experienced on earth. His kingdom is one of justice, mercy, truth, and peace–so unlike the kingdoms we often see around us.

But this kingdom isn’t just future. It’s already here, in part, through the church. And it’s not yet complete until Christ returns. We pray for:

  • The defeat of evil and darkness.
  • The advance of the Gospel across the world.
  • The flourishing of local churches and transformed lives.
  • The return of Christ and the fullness of His kingdom.

“Your Will Be Done”

God’s will is perfect, sovereign, and wise. But it’s not always easy. To pray “Your will be done” is to trust God fully, even when life hurts. It’s a prayer that might lead to self-denial, sacrifice–or even suffering.

Jesus prayed this very line in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39), surrendering to the Father’s plan that led Him to the cross. We follow His example when we say:

“Not my will, but Yours be done.”

We also long for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven–perfectly, joyfully, and completely. And we ask for help to live out His will in our everyday lives.

Key Points

  • The kingdom of God is already present through Jesus but not yet fully realized.
  • To pray for God’s kingdom is to desire the defeat of evil and the advance of the Gospel.
  • God’s will is always good, even when it’s not easy to understand or follow.
  • Submitting to God’s will means trusting Him with every area of our lives–even in suffering.
  • Jesus perfectly modeled submission to the Father’s will in life and death.

Key Takeaways

  • Pray with expectation for God’s kingdom to be seen in your life and world.
  • Trust God’s sovereign will–even when it means letting go of your own plans.
  • Live as an agent of God’s kingdom: love boldly, serve faithfully, and speak truthfully.
  • Remember that Christ’s return will bring the kingdom in full–so live in hopeful anticipation.
  • Let your prayer life reshape how you see suffering, obedience, and mission.

Scripture References

Reflection Questions

  • What would it mean for God’s kingdom to come in your life this week?
  • How have you struggled to submit your will to God’s?
  • In what area is God asking you to trust His timing or authority?
  • How can you help bring His kingdom into your home, workplace, or community?
  • Are you willing to pray, “Your will be done,” even when it costs you?