Day 32: Praying in His Name

Opening Scripture

John 16:23 (NIV)

23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

Devotional Reflection

Prayer must form us into the name of Jesus Christ. God is not taking requests like a 1970s disc jockey, playing whatever is asked. He is partnering with us. Our prayers are meant to participate in His work.

To ask something in the name of Christ is to ensure that our request aligns with His character, His methods, and His mission.

A name means something. Throughout Scripture, we see people named according to meaning, calling, or destiny. In the same way, a person becomes known not merely by their name, but by their character, accomplishments, and way of life. When we hear a name, certain qualities immediately come to mind.

Michael Jordan—basketball. 

Arnold Palmer—golf. 

Steve Jobs—creative genius. 

Einstein—scientific brilliance. 

Jesus—God.

When we think of Christ, we must remember that He is God. Our prayers must align with this truth. We do not approach Him as though He owes us anything. We come humbly into the throne room, knowing that every request is for something we have not earned and do not deserve.

He is the Son of God. He came to save sinners and to be a friend of sinners. Our prayers, therefore, cannot ask for harm to come to those we dislike. They must reflect His love for every human being and His desire that all would be saved.

He is the Lamb of God. He gave Himself willingly so that others might have the opportunity to place their faith in Him. Our prayers cannot be rooted in selfishness. They must reflect His sacrificial love.

He is the King of Kings. Our prayers should be free from fear and filled with confidence—confidence that He reigns, that He wins every battle, and that nothing stands outside His authority, and no enemy can be in His presence without falling to their knees in defeat.

To be truly devoted to prayer, we must also be devoted to the work of transformation that the Holy Spirit desires to accomplish in us. If our desire to become Christlike fades, our prayer life will become weak and lack fervor. But when we commit ourselves to transformation—so that our lives increasingly reflect His name—our prayers change. Our tone changes. Our requests change. Our frequency changes.

We are changed as we pray in His name.

The Examen

1. In what ways do my prayers reflect—or fail to reflect—the character and mission of Jesus?

2. Where might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to grow so that my prayers align more fully with Christ’s heart?

Lectio Divina Scripture

John 14:13 (NIV)

13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

Read the passage slowly out loud several times. With each reading, emphasize a different word or phrase. Notice what stands out and why.

Prayer Prompt

Lord Jesus, shape my heart so that my prayers reflect Your name. Transform my desires, align my requests with Your will, and teach me to pray with humility, faith, and confidence in who You are. Amen.