What does it mean when it says, “Give us this day our daily bread?”
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I’ve been noticing news stories that reference the Lord’s Prayer. I often hear it recited at public rallies. What does it mean when it says, “Give us this day our daily bread?” I have always advocated, if you don’t work, you don’t eat! And I work hard to provide for my family’s daily needs. – G.P.
A: God delights in giving – even to those who have more than they need. Everything good comes from God. Whatever material things we enjoy come from God. We may work hard for them, but God is the provider, and He gives them to remind us of His goodness and our constant dependence on Him. The bread and the blessings are from Him.
Everything that we count as our possessions only comprises a loan from God. When we lose sight of this all-pervading truth, we come to believe that we are self-sufficient and that what we have is to our own credit. God owns all we have, and it is our responsibility to manage everything in an acceptable way that brings glory to Him.
But the most important thing we should remember is that we are God’s possession and He wants to fill us with His truth. We should bless Him by living lives that point others to His goodness.
Whether in a season of need or plenty, we must keep our eyes on the Lord. All of God’s generosity should drive us to thanksgiving—it should be a daily part of life. The Bible tells us to give thanks always, in all circumstances, because it pleases Jesus Christ (see 1 Thessalonians 5:18).
God gives us even rain from heaven (see Acts 14:17), and He will fill our hearts with gladness if we will look to Him.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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