in heaven and on earth."
A nine year-old boy asked his mother, "Why does our pastor always ask his prayers in Jesus name?" His mother answered, "All of us should, because our prayers are answered in Jesus name. God our Father gave Jesus all authority in heaven and on earth, because He died for our sins, and He was raised from the grave. We are able to come to God through Jesus."
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). Prayer in Jesus name is our way to the Father. Our prayers are not based upon our self-righteousness but His righteousness. Our prayers are not based upon our authority but His. For example, a General in the army may give a command that is passed down to those who serve under his authority. Through the chain of command the order is given. The believer's authority is under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
To pray in the authority of Jesus is always to pray according to the will of God. When we ask anything according to God's will in Jesus name, we can rest assured that the answer is on the way (John 14:13; 1 John 5:14-15). Someone will ask, but how can I know the will of God? You will find it written in your Bible. The word of God is the will of God. Read it. Believe it. Pray it with authority.
Prayer: Father, we ask Your will be done in our lives in Jesus name.
