"In The Name Of Jesus"

What does it mean when we say "in the name of Jesus"?

When we were children, or in some of our earlier experiences with church, we were told to pray in the name of Jesus and God would answer.  We got older and more in tune to the relevancy of our spiritual lives and found out, that this is not always the case.  Many prayers have gone unanswered, with people looking for results because they said the "right words".

In biblical days, a name of someone was what a person stood for; was the substance of their character or their authority.  In general, a name is a word or words used that describes and also distinguishes one entity from another.

Many Christians and followers of Christ think that they are doing something spiritual, but end up doing something religious and superstitious in saying "in the name of Jesus" in prayer.  There is a big difference in just saying "in the name of Jesus", and praying in the name of Jesus.

To pray in the name of Jesus, what we are doing is acting in His authority, in His stead, and according to His command.  When we do anything that is consistent with His desires, we are testifying to the name, nature, power, and substance of God. 

When we say, "in the name of Jesus in prayer", we generally don't mean, "I am praying in the authority and mind of Jesus Christ".  We are primarily just saying, "i'm done", or amen.  It has become the "Christian" exit to prayer.

There is power in praying in the authority of Jesus Christ, by the authority He has given us; that's consistent with His character, desire, and will.

It's like a police officer saying, "stop in the name of the law".  He has that authority given to him.  But take away that authority or when the police officer is off duty, the same saying does not have the same meaning.  Without the mind, power, and authority of Christ, the saying doesn't have the same meaning.

If you are thinking with the mind of Christ, and that is your attitude, it doesn't matter what you say at the end of your prayer, God hears you because of His principles and intent for our lives.

There is a big difference between saying in the name of Jesus, and praying in the name of Jesus.  Let us be mindful to do all things with not only in words, but with the Mind of Jesus Christ.

"The Power Of One"

The power of one.  Books have been written about it. Songs have been made about it. Movies have hit the box office with this concept as the underlying inspiration.

The power of one has changed lives around the world. A concept so strong, so powerful that without it, the world as we know it, would not exist.

What is the power of one?  It's the will, drive, and determination of one person to make a difference.  It's the passion, perseverance, and persistence to accomplish a goal.

Jackie Robinson had the power of one.  The courage to step forward.  A passion and drive to go against the grain.  The first African American to play major league baseball had the power of one.  Through the power of one man, major league baseball is what it is today.

Thomas Edison had the power of one.  If it wasn't for this one inventor, scientist, and businessman; technology and energy would not be what is is today.

Jesus Christ had the power of one.  Because of one man, a universal school of thought exists all over the world.

One person can change a life. One person can change an organization.  It only takes the influence of one person to motivate a generation and start a movement.

Everyone has their hero. That special person that inspired them to be, do, or love something that has a lasting impression their life.

For me, that special person was my uncle, Winford Taylor.  He was that special person that I looked up to when I was young.   I watched his life. I looked at his moves. I listened to his words.  He inspired me to be a Realtor, Investor, and Entrepreneur.  He inspired me to be a Father, a Husband, and a Provider.  If it wasn't for "the power of one", my life wouldn't be what is it today.

In addition to "the power of one" I am also a firm believer of "paying it forward".  We have to realize that we have "the power of one" also, and the responsibility of "paying it forward".

One speech can change a life.  One quote could inspire a generation.  One book can start a movement.  I am committed to "the power of one!'