DISCIPLESHIP PRAYER DAY 33

In Jesus’ Name

Whatever you ask in my name

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit-fruit that will last-and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” (John 15:16, NIV)

It’s not a magical formula, as if we can ask for anything our heart desires, add “in Jesus’ name” to the end, and then wait for our every dream to be fulfilled. No, praying in Jesus’ name does not mean simply tacking on those three words to the end of our prayers. It’s much more profound and much greater than that.

Asking in Jesus’ name means to ask according to God’s plan and purpose as revealed to us in Jesus Christ. It means asking for what we need to accomplish the mission and purpose for which we have been created. At its most foundational level, this means growing in Christlikeness, being remade into the image of God, or (as some theologians like to say) becoming truly and fully human, as we were created to be. This purpose-filled, mission-pursuing life of Christlike love looks like this:

• Being fertile soil for the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22–23)
• Loving God and love our neighbors, including our enemies (Mar 12:30–31; Mat 5:43–48);
• Being peacemakers (Mat 5:9), along with all the other attributes found in the Beatitudes (Mat 5:3–12);
• Acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8);
• Sharing the good news of new hope and new life in Christ with all people (1 Tim 2:3–4; 2 Pet 3:9; 2 Tim 2:4);
• Denying ourselves and taking up our cross daily to follow Christ (Luk 9:23);
• Seeking wisdom and understanding (Jam 1:5; Prov 16:16; Eph 5:15);
• Being joyful in prayer and giving thanks at all times (1 Thess 5:16–18);
• Trusting in the Lord (Prov 3:5–6);
• Being filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:17–20)

If and when we ask for such things — things that reflect the very nature of Christ, represented by his name — we are sure to be given what we need to be growing in Christlikeness as the image of God in us comes into greater focus.

It is also good to remember that “in Jesus’ name,” whether uttered aloud or spoken softly in our hearts, is not a particular phrase only reserved for prayer. Instead,

…we should think of every interaction as done in Jesus’ name — that is, first and foremost as an offering to him. (J.D. Greear)

“And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17, CSB)

Every moment, every task, and every interaction;

At all times, in all places, and with all people;

Big things or small;

During special events and in mundane moments;

All done in Jesus’ name, for the glory of God, and according to the purpose and plan of the One who has called us.

This is our offering as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.