Luke 11:3 (KJV) says, "Give us day by day our daily bread."

This verse is part of the Lord's Prayer, a well-known prayer taught by Jesus to his disciples as a model for how to pray. As such, it holds significant thematic and contextual meanings within the larger framework of the Bible and Christian faith.

The phrase "Give us day by day our daily bread" addresses the concept of provision and dependence on God. It acknowledges the need for sustenance and the recognition that all good things come from God. It also reflects the idea of living in the present moment and trusting in God's daily provision.

In a broader sense, the request for "daily bread" is not just about physical nourishment, but also about spiritual sustenance. Jesus is teaching his followers to seek God's provision for their everyday needs, both material and spiritual. This speaks to the idea of relying on God for strength, wisdom, and guidance in all aspects of life.

In the context of the Lord's Prayer, this verse follows the opening lines addressing God's holiness and the desire for his kingdom to come. By asking for daily bread, the prayer transitions to the practical needs of daily living, demonstrating the holistic nature of our relationship with God. It is a reminder that God's care extends to every aspect of our lives, and that we can come to him with all our needs and concerns.

The theme of daily dependence on God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were provided with manna in the wilderness on a daily basis, teaching them to trust in God’s provision each day. This verse in Luke echoes that same sentiment, emphasizing the idea of relying on God's daily provision rather than hoarding or worrying about the future.

The symbolism of "daily bread" also holds significance. Bread is a staple food in many cultures and is often used in the Bible to symbolize nourishment and sustenance. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to himself as the "bread of life" (John 6:35), emphasizing that he is the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment. Therefore, the request for daily bread can also be understood as a plea for a daily relationship with Christ, recognizing him as the source of all our needs.

Additionally, the phrase "daily bread" can be interpreted as a call for simplicity and contentment. By asking for just enough to meet our daily needs, we are acknowledging our dependence on God and rejecting the pursuit of excess or indulgence. This ties into the broader theme of trusting in God's provision and living with a sense of gratitude and reliance on him.

In summary, Luke 11:3 encapsulates the fundamental Christian principles of trust, reliance, and daily dependence on God. It reminds believers to seek God's provision for their daily needs, both material and spiritual, while also emphasizing the simplicity and contentment that come from trusting in God's daily care. It serves as a powerful reminder of our ongoing need for God's sustaining presence in our lives and is a timeless expression of faith and dependence on the divine.