Words Of Glory

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Matthew 6:13

Many liturgical churches sing the Gloria Patri (Latin for “Glory Be to the Father”) at the end of a church service. Other, less formal, churches sing what is simply called “The Doxology” or “The Common Doxology”: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” Both are Christian doxologies (from the Greek doxa, which means “glory,” and logos, which means “word”), short hymns of praise to God.

Jesus taught His disciples to conclude their prayers with a doxology: “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen” (Matthew 6:13). Even though this doxology is omitted from many ancient manuscripts and may not be part of the original text, its theological value is undiminished. Concluding a prayer with words of praise to God is a way of saying, “It is Your kingdom resources, Your power, and Your glory that determine when and how You will answer. I trust You, Lord.” That’s really the purpose of prayer—to bring us into an ever-deepening and more trusting relationship with God.

Consider creating your own doxology—or use the one Jesus created—to affirm your commitment to God’s Kingdom, power, and glory when you pray.

The Christian ought to be a living doxology.

MARTIN LUTHER