Prayer and Our Relationship with God
Ask the Father

Scripture Reading: John 16:24-28

Key Verse: 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.

Jesus was explaining to His disciples what the believers would look like after the resurrection, His ascension and the giving of the Holy Spirit! Our scripture today reminds us that Jesus set the standard for prayer. He explained to His disciples that they would soon go straight to the heavenly Father and ask for favors. When they did, they were to ask for things in Jesus’ name.

When you hear someone close their prayer with the phrase, “In Jesus’ Name,” this passage of scripture is what started this concept. Our Father is the giver of all good gifts. Jesus is the authority by which we can ask and receive them. Jesus doesn’t beg the Father to give us favors, the Father wants to on His own. Note John 16:27: “Now the Father Himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.” We use Jesus’ name because His death and resurrection opened the path back to God. Our faith honors God’s son so much that God enjoys giving us that which we ask for in Jesus’ name.

Most ask: Why does it seem like I don’t get my prayers answered? This verse seems to teach that if I ask, I will receive. Like our children, it is difficult for us to accept the answer our Father gives. He gives us what He knows we need, not what our childlike minds ask for. He knows we often wouldn’t like what we ask for. His love is too deep, and His wisdom is too extensive to hurt us by granting our request. He chooses to give us the good and perfect gifts that will bless us eternally!

Father, my mind will never comprehend your love and knowledge. I trust you in all my requests. You know best! In Jesus’ Name, amen.