John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
Introductory Thoughts
Many believers have made it a practice to end their prayers with the phrase “in Jesus’ name.” They do so because of the Saviour’s command to pray in His name. However, the command carries a far deeper relevance than simply a formula habitually added at the end of a prayer. This phrase added at the end of the prayer serves as a reminder that we are performing the action in the name of another. It is also taking place at the request of and under the authority of another person. By coming to the Father in the name of the Son, believers are approaching the Father under the Son’s authority and at His request. Because of Christ’s request and authority, believers can approach the throne with boldness (Hebrews 4:16). Without Christ’s request and authority, our boldness would be turned into presumptuousness.
Devotional thoughts
- (For children): When you end a prayer by saying, “In Jesus’ name, Amen!” you are not simply telling God that you are finished praying. You are acknowledging that Jesus is why you came to God in prayer. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2), but Jesus died for our sins and that is the only way the Father accepts our prayers (Ephesians 2:13, 18).
- (For everyone): Why is it so important to pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? How does this provide access to the Father? Why does this make it more important to pray according to God’s will?
- Is it possible to say the words “in Jesus’ name” without truly praying in Jesus’ name? How can you insure that you are praying in the name of Jesus?
Prayer Thoughts
- Thank God that you can come to Him in the name of His Son.
- Ask God to teach you what it is to pray in the name of Jesus.
SONG: TBD