When the seventy-two disciples returned [after being sent as missionaries], they joyfully reported to [Jesus], “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!”
Key Thought
Jesus’ name is so frequently used in vain today that we often forget how powerful his name is. We pray in Jesus’ name because he intercedes for us with authority. By praying in Jesus’ name, we invoke his authority and power to work in our lives and the lives of others for whom we pray. We pray by his power and authority to help them, to heal them, to renew them, to comfort them, to lead them. Jesus has authority over all powers and forces. They cannot stand up to his authority, character, and truth. His presence in us and his love for us assure us that we have overcome the world because the one in us is greater than the one in the world. Even though many may reject Jesus, we must rejoice because of the liberating power over sin and death that Jesus’ presence brings us and all who accept him!
Today’s Prayer
I praise you, Father, for displaying your mighty power in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. I thank you for making that power work in my life as I yield myself to Jesus’ authority and trust in his grace. I praise you for hearing my heart’s prayers because of the authority of Jesus’ name by which I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Acts 4:12Philippians 2:5-11John 16:23Ⓒ 1996-2023 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.