Ending prayer with an amen was a custom practiced in first-century Jewish synagogues that was continued in the earliest of Christian gatherings and has been continued since. Originating from the Hebrew language, the word amen (like the word “Halleluljah”) has been passed down to us by its adoption by Greek-speaking believers, then into Latin, and now English. In fact, we share this word with every language on earth today for which the Bible has been translated. As such, the word amen has become a universal expression of faith and prayer. It can be argued that amen is the best-known word in human speech, and its meaning has not changed over the millennia! When used at the end of a prayer, amen means “let it be done” or “let it be fulfilled.” The word embodies faith. I am reminded of Paul’s words in Philippians 4:4-7,
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Why are we told to always rejoice? Don’t we sometimes face hardship and suffering? And, why should we display gentleness to everyone? Aren’t we at times pressed, stressed, and in need of defense? Because we have made our requests known to God. That’s why. We have a promise, that when we pray, God hears us. If God (who is for us) hears us, should we not trust Him? To every prayer we ever pray, let us add this vote of confidence: Amen! Let it be so. Let it be done. We lay our burdens at the feet of Jesus, and there we can rest knowing He now carries our burden.
Today, every moment you are tempted to worry or be anxious, I want you to do three things:
1. Identify the underlying fear.
2. Ask God to intervene.
3. Then declare your trust in God by ending your prayer with a faith-filled “AMEN!”
Then, walk in peace because you know that God has heard you.
– Pastor Steve Carlin
“Why are we told to always rejoice? Don’t we sometimes face hardship and suffering?”