Meaning of Matthew 6:11

This petition in the Lord's Prayer, "Give us today our daily bread," is not merely a request for physical sustenance, but a profound expression of complete dependence on God for all our needs, both temporal and spiritual, for the present moment. The word "daily" (epiousios) is theologically significant, with scholarly debate surrounding its precise meaning. Some interpret it as "bread for the coming day" or "super-essential bread," suggesting a spiritual and eschatological dimension beyond mere physical nourishment. Others understand it as "bread for this day," emphasizing present reliance and trust, a daily surrender of our future to God's provision. Regardless of the precise nuance, the core message is one of humility, acknowledging our inability to sustain ourselves and our need for God's continuous, moment-by-moment care. It is a prayer that acknowledges our vulnerability and entrusts our well-being entirely into the hands of our heavenly Father.

Context and Background

This verse is part of the Lord's Prayer, as recorded in Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4. Jesus taught this prayer to his disciples in response to their request for instruction on how to pray. The prayer is structured as a model, outlining the key elements of acceptable prayer to God. The petition for "daily bread" falls within the section of the prayer that addresses our earthly needs, following the petitions for God's glory and kingdom. It's embedded in a prayer that prioritizes God's will and presence before turning to personal requests.

Key Themes and Messages

• Dependence on God: The primary theme is our utter dependence on God for all provision. It's a recognition that our sustenance, in its broadest sense, comes from Him.
• Present Focus: The emphasis on "today" or "this day" highlights the need for a present-moment trust in God's provision, rather than an anxious concern for the distant future.
• Holistic Provision: While "bread" literally refers to food, it often serves as a metonym for all necessities of life – physical, material, and spiritual.
• Humility and Trust: This petition requires humility, admitting our limitations, and profound trust in God's faithfulness to meet our needs.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, "daily bread" can be interpreted as the Word of God, the sacraments, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, all of which are essential for spiritual nourishment and growth. It calls believers to live by faith, trusting that God will provide what is needed for the current day's journey, both physically and spiritually. This prayer encourages a disciplined reliance on God, fostering a mindset of gratitude for each day's provision and a readiness to face challenges with His strength. It also implies a responsibility to share our provisions with others, reflecting God's generous nature.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The concept of God's provision for His people is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. From the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16) to God's promise of abundant life in Christ (John 10:10), the Bible consistently portrays God as a faithful Provider. This petition echoes the psalmist's declaration, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1), and Jesus' teaching that "man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). It underscores the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where He promises to care for those who seek Him.

Analogies

• A Child Asking for Daily Sustenance: Just as a young child relies on their parents for daily food, shelter, and care, this petition reflects our childlike dependence on our heavenly Father.
• A Traveler Needing Daily Provisions: A traveler on a long journey cannot carry all their food for the entire trip. They must trust their host or their provisions to be replenished daily. This prayer mirrors that trust in God's ongoing provision.
• A Plant's Need for Sunlight and Water: Plants require daily sunlight and water to survive and grow. Similarly, our spiritual lives require daily nourishment from God's grace and truth.

Relation to Other Verses

• Philippians 4:19: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." This verse directly assures believers of God's comprehensive provision.
• Psalm 37:25: "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread." This psalm speaks to God's historical faithfulness in providing for the righteous.
• John 6:35: Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." This highlights the spiritual sustenance Christ offers, which is the ultimate "daily bread."
• Proverbs 30:8-9: Agur prays for neither poverty nor riches, but for "food enough for me." This echoes the sentiment of needing only what is sufficient for the present.