AMEN!

[For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.’] Matthew 6:13

I learned at an early age that the word “amen” means “it shall be so.” That is an accurate definition but again, the study of God’s word reveals so much more.

How often do we hear in a ministry gathering, at the end of the prayer, “And the people said….” 

And then  everyone shouts, “Amen!” 

The history of that particular habit goes back to the Old Testament 

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,

From everlasting even to everlasting.

Then all the people said, “Amen,” and praised the Lord.” 1 Chronicles 16:36

I love this verse for two reasons. First, is the preceding line, “from everlasting even to everlasting” which connects to yesterday’s blog. Second, I love what came after the people saying “Amen”. They praised the Lord. 

Saying “Amen” at the end of a prayer is another act of worship. 

The Greek word used in the New Testament for the word “amen’” has roots in the Hebrew word used in the Chronicles verse. It is in studying the Hebrew word that we find the so much more than “it shall be so.” 

Where the Greek could be interpreted as “surely,” “amen” in Hebrew means “to be trustworthy, to be true, to be certain, and to be faithful.” All of those words are solid words. Characteristics that we can apply to God and to His prayer. 

We can stand on God’s promises and character that we have learned on this journey because He is faithful. He is worthy of our trust. He is true. His love and Presence are certain. He is faithful to His children. 

The Aramaic puts it this way, “Sealed in trust, faith, and truth. (I confirm with my entire being).”

When you say “amen,” God seals His word in trust, faithfulness, and truth. 

When you say “amen,” you confirm your prayer with your entire being.

Say it with me, 

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.” 

And the people said…

“AMEN!” 

Thank you for taking this journey with me. I pray that Holy Spirit has met you and enlightened my words as only He can. It was a joy for me to sit with the Lord and ask Him to open the scriptures to me. Blessings upon you and yours.