When we pray, there are certain words, or phrases, that everyone knows to say. We’ve heard prayer modeled by others and so we copy what we hear. Most of the time we end with “Amen,” because we are to be “in agreement” with whomever is praying. But why do we say, “In Jesus’ Name?”
A good name is to be respected. A king can tell a servant to go do something “in the name of the king,” and it will be done and accepted. No questions asked.
In the Old Testament, God tells us to not take his name in vain. There is a meaning in a “great name” that Americans do not truly understand.
Use God’s Name for Good
In Matthew 18:5, Jesus tells us, “And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me.” When we say we are Christians, which means “Little Christ,” we are taking Jesus’ name upon ourselves. When we do kind acts of service, then we are using his name for good.
Be Respectful of God’s Name
We must be respectful of God’s name. After all, he is the Creator of the universe. Many verses of scripture link together God’s name with power.
Nevertheless He saved them for the sake of His name, That He might make His power known. ~ Psalm 106:8
When we pray, we must be respectful toward the One to whom we are praying. When we ask for help, or guidance, or salvation, we are wanting heaven to move on our behalf. That thought alone should humble our hearts.
Use Jesus’ Name Against the Enemy
These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues; ~ Mark 16:17
The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” ~ Luke 10:17
Our fight is never with each other. Our fight is against the prince of darkness, the principalities of the air. Once again this shows the power of praying in the name of Jesus. Only his name is the one that can bind the enemy and save us from destruction.
So why do we pray in Jesus’ name?
Because of John 14:13. “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” We can also add John 14:26 and John 15:16. These words come from Jesus, and he meant them.
Prepare to Pray!
Have your children look at former prayers they may have written. Explain to them the concept of being a “Little Christian” and that there is great power in the name of Jesus. Remind them that we humbly go before the Father to pray because he is great and mighty. We are not. Tell your children that when they end their prayers with the phrase, “in Jesus’ name” then they are to expect him to answer. If they need to deal with sin, or pray against the enemy, help your children to claim, “in Jesus’ name.”
Now Pray!
Encourage your children to not just read or say the words, but to pray them from the heart.
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{All of these verses link to BibleGateway. If you would rather choose a different version of the scriptures, then click the link and choose the version you want.}
