What does it mean to pray in Christ's name?

To pray in Christ's name is not merely a formulaic ending to our prayers; it signifies approaching God through the merits and righteousness of Jesus Christ. It acknowledges that we have no standing before God apart from Him (Hebrews 10:19-21). This principle is deeply rooted in the Gospel, as we learn to depend on Christ’s sacrificial work and righteousness for our communion with the Father. When we align our requests with His will, reflecting a heart transformed by His grace, our prayers are powerful and effective because they are backed by His authority and mercy.