John 14:13 And whatsoever you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.
The reason why we must first observe the passages that pertain to prayer requests, is so that our faith in God will have intelligent direction, and folks will be more likely receive an answer. As we read, we must tread softly with the various passages because some are not absolute statements, as may be understood by some persons. Therefore, the line upon line, precept upon precept approach must be utilized, in order for us to come away with balanced and correct views.
The words “Whatsoever” and “Anything” in the two previous passages, have been a source of problems for some believers, who, upon reading these verses may jump to incorrect conclusions. When observed carefully there is a caveat in the passages which says “In my name.” Thus, the logical question is: What does it mean to pray in Jesus’ name? It does not only mean placing His name strategically after your prayer requests, even though this is necessary, since everything has to pass through Him first.
Praying in Jesus’ name means praying according to what God has promised, asking in harmony with the word of God, with a heart that is vitally connected to Christ, that is willing to be directed by Him, and a mind that is directed by The Holy Spirit. The Holy Ghost will never move upon you to ask for something that God will not at least respond to you about, and thus, the issue of praying in Jesus’ name is one of the primary issues that will often affect the outcome, whether it be Yes, No or Wait.
John 15: 16 You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!