Night Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer
The Lord’s Prayer is the most well-known prayer in Christianity. Taught by Jesus to his disciples, it has become the foundation for countless prayers across centuries and cultures. When spoken at night, the Lord’s Prayer becomes a way of closing the day with words that have guided believers for two thousand years. It reminds us of who God is, what we need most, and where our true rest is found.
Night prayer and the Lord’s Prayer belong together. The quiet of evening is an ideal time to repeat the prayer Jesus gave us, not as routine but as trust. Each line takes on a fresh meaning at day’s end: daily bread already provided, forgiveness still needed, and protection sought through the night.
Scripture for the Evening
“Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one.” — Matthew 6:9–13, NRSV
Reflection
Praying the Lord’s Prayer at night is more than reciting words—it is stepping into Jesus’ teaching and resting in his care. At day’s end, each petition speaks into our lives: God has provided what we needed, we ask forgiveness for what went wrong, and we seek protection from harm.
The prayer begins by centering on God—his name, his kingdom, his will. It then moves to our needs—bread, mercy, and protection. Ending the day with this prayer helps us hand everything over to God, trusting that he is faithful.
Night after night, the Lord’s Prayer becomes a rhythm. It shapes our hearts in gratitude, humility, and trust, preparing us to wake in the morning with hope.
Night Prayers with the Lord’s Prayer
1. The Lord’s Prayer at Night
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. Amen. {pause}
2. A Prayer of Gratitude with the Lord’s Prayer
Lord, thank you for teaching us to pray. Tonight as I say the words Jesus gave, let them shape my heart. Thank you for daily bread, for forgiveness, and for your protection as I rest. {pause}
3. A Prayer of Trust with the Lord’s Prayer
Father, as I close this day, I pray the prayer of Jesus. Let your kingdom come and your will be done in my life. Provide what I need, forgive me where I fall short, and protect me through the night. {pause}
Kid’s Night Prayer with the Lord’s Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the prayer Jesus taught us. Help me to remember your love when I say it. Please keep me safe tonight and give me good dreams. Amen. {pause}
Explore More Night Prayers
Want to end your day with peace? Visit our Night Prayer Hub for more guides to evening prayers rooted in Scripture and tradition.
See Also
What Is the Prayer Before Bed? — Discover simple bedtime prayers rooted in Scripture.
A Guide to Night Prayer: How to End the Day with God — Learn a nightly rhythm of gratitude, confession, and trust.
Night Prayer in the Psalms: 4, 23, and 91 — Explore ancient prayers of safety and peace.
