Pondering Point

Not every prayer uttered or thought needs to end with the phrase “in Jesus’ name” (see the Lord’s Prayer). But every effective prayer is heard in the name of Jesus, that is, because of Jesus our Mediator, our High Priest, the Way to the Father. It’s not just in Jesus’ name, but in Jesus’ power and authority that we can approach God, go out from God, and operate under God. Jesus said as much during His impending departure, telling His disciples that they could ask the Father for anything in His name (John 14:13).

Some liken the expression to having use of a credit card (which Jesus covers) – or having access to His account. Of course that means that you– AS HIS DISCIPLE – are already living for HIM and NO LONGER living for self. Jesus had told these same disciples that anyone who follows Him must deny themselves, pick up their cross and no longer live for self. That is true for you also.

Prayer Thoughts
Chapter 1

Let's be honest. Why is it, that we are not more active in sincere prayer? Christians struggle with periods of stagnant prayer. The dullness may be due to sin in our life – in that case we need to repent and pray. Business, discouraged by grief, no answers, and out of the habit, are common excuses. I also believe prayerlessness exists simply because we do not believe that it will make a difference. If we actually believed that prayer would make a change in our lives, in our families, in our marriages, schools, and the churches, then we would pray regularly, urgently and persistently. Join me in asking God to lead us to be prayer warriors in His mighty army of servants, moving ahead to conquer giants of fear and evil, boldly proclaiming His love and forgiveness.

Got his book?  Read pages 27-29 in Keep Me and Keep All, Smith.

Also check out Pastor Bob’s answer to Prayer Question #41 on page 283: “Why do we pray in Jesus' name?”