What is the proper way to end a prayer?

Prayer is a deeply personal and sacred practice in the Christian faith, serving as a conduit for communication with God. The way we end our prayers can be as significant as the content within them, as it encapsulates our reverence, faith, and submission to God's will. While there is no single "proper" way to end a prayer, there are various elements and traditions that many Christians find meaningful and scripturally sound.

In Jesus' Name

One of the most common ways to conclude a prayer is by saying, "In Jesus' name, Amen." This practice is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Himself. In John 14:13-14, Jesus says, "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." By invoking the name of Jesus, we acknowledge His mediating role between us and the Father, affirming that our prayers align with His will and authority.

Amen

The word "Amen" is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "truth" or "certainty." When we say "Amen" at the end of a prayer, we are affirming that what we have prayed is true and that we trust God to fulfill His promises. In Revelation 22:20, the final book of the Bible concludes with the words, "He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus." This usage underscores the word's role in affirming the truth and reliability of God's word.

Expressions of Faith and Trust

Another meaningful way to end a prayer is by expressing faith and trust in God's will. For instance, you might conclude with, "According to Your will, Lord," or "Thy will be done," echoing the words of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39). This practice demonstrates a humble submission to God's greater wisdom and plan, acknowledging that His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9).

Gratitude

Ending a prayer with gratitude can also be profoundly impactful. Thanking God for His blessings, His presence, and His answers to our prayers—whether they are immediate or forthcoming—cultivates a heart of thankfulness. Philippians 4:6 advises, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Gratitude shifts our focus from our needs to God's provision and faithfulness.

Benedictions

Incorporating a benediction or a blessing at the end of a prayer can be another beautiful way to conclude. Many Christians find inspiration in the benedictions found in Scripture. For example, Numbers 6:24-26 offers a timeless blessing: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Such words can serve as a powerful reminder of God's promises and presence.

Silence and Reflection

Sometimes, the most profound way to end a prayer is with a moment of silence and reflection. This practice allows us to listen for God's voice and to meditate on His presence. Psalm 46:10 encourages us to "Be still, and know that I am God." In the stillness, we can find a deeper connection with God, allowing His Spirit to speak to our hearts.

Scriptural Affirmations

Ending a prayer with a verse or a scriptural affirmation can also be enriching. Scripture is God's word, and incorporating it into our prayers can reinforce our faith and bring comfort. For example, concluding with Romans 15:13, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit," can leave us with a sense of hope and assurance.

Community and Unity

When praying in a group setting, ending with a unifying phrase can foster a sense of community and shared faith. Phrases like "Together we pray in Jesus' name, Amen," or "In unity with the body of Christ, Amen," can remind us that we are part of a larger family of believers. Acts 1:14 describes the early church as being "constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers." This communal aspect of prayer can strengthen our bonds with one another and with God.

Personalization

Ultimately, the most proper way to end a prayer is one that resonates with your personal relationship with God. Prayer is not a formulaic ritual but a heartfelt conversation with our Creator. Whether you choose to end with a traditional phrase, a personal expression of faith, or a moment of silent reflection, what matters most is the sincerity and authenticity of your heart.

Reflecting on Jesus' Example

Looking at the prayers of Jesus can also provide guidance. In the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), Jesus concludes with a doxology: "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen." While this doxology is not present in all manuscripts, it has been a cherished part of Christian liturgy for centuries. It reminds us to ascribe glory and honor to God, recognizing His sovereignty and majesty.

In Jesus' prayer in John 17, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer, He concludes with a deep sense of unity and mission: "Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them" (John 17:25-26). This ending highlights the relational and missional aspects of prayer, focusing on God's love and Jesus' ongoing work in our lives.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

It's also important to recognize the role of the Holy Spirit in our prayers. Romans 8:26-27 tells us, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God." Inviting the Holy Spirit to guide and conclude our prayers can lead to a deeper and more authentic connection with God.

Cultural and Denominational Variations

While this answer is written from a non-denominational perspective, it's worth noting that different Christian traditions have various ways of ending prayers. For example, liturgical traditions like Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Anglicanism often include set prayers and responses that have been passed down through centuries. These can include specific benedictions, doxologies, and invocations of saints. While non-denominational Christians may not use these exact forms, understanding and respecting these traditions can enrich our own prayer practices.

Conclusion

In essence, the proper way to end a prayer is not confined to a specific formula or set of words. It is an expression of our relationship with God, reflecting our faith, trust, and reverence. Whether through invoking Jesus' name, expressing gratitude, quoting Scripture, or simply being still, what matters most is the sincerity of our hearts and our openness to God's will. As we grow in our prayer lives, we may find that different endings resonate with us at different times, each bringing us closer to the heart of God.