What is the meaning of Luke 11:3?

Give us day by day our daily bread.

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Luke 11:3 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding Luke 11:3

Verse: "Give us day by day our daily bread."

Overview

Luke 11:3 is part of the Lord's Prayer and serves as a request for daily sustenance. This verse illustrates the fundamental relationship between God and humanity, emphasizing dependency on divine provision for our physical and spiritual needs.

Bible Verse Commentary

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry reflects on the idea that this request encompasses more than just physical food, indicating a broader need for all things necessary for life. By asking for "daily bread," believers express reliance on God for every provision, acknowledging God's control over their resources.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes emphasizes the word "daily," suggesting that this signifies the need for a continual provision rather than once-for-all sufficiency. This underscores the importance of seeking God daily and the sufficiency of God's grace, aligning believers with the rhythm of reliance and trust.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke delves into the historical context, noting that the Jews understood bread as a staple of life, thus representing all of life's necessities. He points out that this petition illustrates a complete dependence on God for everything that sustains life.

Application of the Verse

  • Daily Dependency: This verse teaches the importance of recognizing our daily needs and addressing them through prayer, teaching believers to trust in God for each day's provisions.
  • Spiritual Nourishment: Besides physical bread, the verse encourages seeking spiritual bread, which refers to Jesus Christ as the Bread of Life (John 6:35). This serves as a reminder that spiritual sustenance is as crucial as physical food.
  • Community Care: Reflecting on this verse encourages believers to care for one another's needs, understanding that just as they seek their daily bread, others do as well.

Significance of Luke 11:3

This verse invites believers into a profound understanding of their relationship with God as their provider. It serves to remind that, while we may work hard to secure our livelihood, true security comes from acknowledging God as the source of life itself. This aligns with the broader theme of biblical exegesis, illustrating how faith intersects with everyday needs.

Conclusion

Luke 11:3 provides rich insights into prayer, dependence on God, and the interplay between the physical and spiritual realms. Understanding scripture, especially this verse, can deeply enhance one’s Bible study insights and encourage an authentic relationship with God.