Good Morning.

In the prayer Jesus taught us to pray, is "Hallowed be thy name," and we finish by saying, "In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen." We close other prayers with "In Jesus' name, Amen." Why do we say that? Why finish our prayers in such a fashion? Let's take a look at what God's Word says about His name. . .

It is profitable to take a look at a few Old Testament references to the name of God: Psalm 8.1 - How majestic is your name. . . Psalm 68.4 - Sing praise to His name. . . Proverbs 18.10- I love this one: The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it, and they are safe. Exodus 20.7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain. Why? Because it is set apart--it is holy. Then take a look at these New Testament references-Matthew 1.21 - You are to give Him the name Jesus. . . Matthew 18.20 Where two or three come together in My name, there I am in the midst of them Acts 2.21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Acts 4.12 There is no other name under Heaven whereby men may be saved. Philippians 2.9-11 God. . . gave Him the name that is above every other name. . . but now, consider with me John 16.23 and 24 - everything changed from here on out. . . Jesus said to His beloved disciples: my Father will give you whatever you ask in My name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. So why do we say, 'in Jesus' name'? Because there is power in the name of Jesus--there is authority.

I was walking with a friend of mine yesterday who recounted a frightening experience she had this past weekend. I listened intently, and the more she described the situation, the more I was convinced that the devil had been trying to get at her--make her afraid, rob her of joy, etc. (you must know this about me--I am not the type to evil around every tree, but sometimes. . . ) Whether we want to recognize it or not, evil is a factor in the world--sometimes it gets a little up close and personal; but when it does, my friends, and you are a follower of Christ, there is no need for fear. Say aloud, 'in the name of Jesus, evil be gone.' Without belaboring the point, I just want you to know that "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world" (1 John 4.4). His name is Jesus, and He is mighty.

One more day before I return to James chapter 4, but I pray that I can impart to you the all-important honor you have in praying to the God of the universe. . . There is nothing that concerns you that doesn't concern Him. So when you pray, close your prayer in confidence that it is truly in Jesus' name we pray, and in whom our prayers are answered.

Why do we say that? Now you know.

Grace and peace to you,

Christine