Signing the Check

Categories: Devotional,John

Why does everyone end their prayers with “In Jesus’ name?”

Well, that is what the Bible says we are to do, ask in the name of Jesus Christ. So, people say, “In Jesus’ name, Amen.” What is that, exactly? Is it a zip code, sending a prayer into the right box of the Trinity?

No, that is not what the Bible means by “in Jesus’ name.”

Jesus, told the disciples, in seven separate verses, on the night he was betrayed. The last words of Christ, virtually, were telling his disciples to ask. Seven times Jesus tells them to ask God, and ask in the name of Christ.

John 14:13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.

John 14:14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

John 16:23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

John 16:26 In that day you will ask in my name.

What does “in my name” mean? Well, suppose I give you a check for 10 million dollars, in my name, Toby Larson. You better rip it up. It’s no good. But, if it is signed, Warren Buffet, signed in the name of Warren Buffet, you can bank it. It is good to cash.

Same with our prayers. We are not praying based on our merit, on what we can pay for, on what we deserve, on what’s in our account. We pray based on the merit of Jesus Christ and what he deserves, on what he is good for, not on our merit. Jesus signs the check of our faithful prayers. We can’t back up our prayers that we bring to the Father, but certainly Jesus can.

So, when Jesus signs the check of your prayers, well, he’s good for it.

Now that’s something to Celebrate.

Author: Toby Larson

Toby Larson leads Celebration International. He is a husband and father of 5. Whether he's teaching, hitting tennis balls, sailing a Hobie, serving in Asia, skiing on water or snow, Toby is passionate about the love of God and the love of life. Read more ...