My brother often ends his text messages with “10-4.” Years ago, airline pilots in movies would signal the end of their two-way radio messages by saying “Over and out.”

When we end our prayers with “Amen,” are we merely signing off? No, the ancient Hebrew word amen has been translated into so many different languages that it has become a universally used word. This little Hebrew word packs a punch—it means “firm,” “true,” or “sure.” It’s like saying, “It is true!” “Right on!” “Make it so!” or “May it be so!”

Christians use “Amen” to affirm something. At the end of our prayers we assert that God absolutely hears and answers our prayers.

Jesus’ use of “Amen” signals another significant use of this word. In his teaching, Jesus often begins with the words “Amen, amen I say to you . . .” or, “Truly, truly I say to you . . .” In this way Jesus affirms that what he is saying is the truth.

So when we say “Amen” at the end of the Lord’s Prayer—or any other prayer—we confess that God will certainly hear and answer our prayers.

Rather than being a signoff, “Amen” is a sendoff of trust and assurance that God hears and answers us.