For His Name's Sake
Nevertheless, He saved them for His name’s sake, that He might make His mighty power known. Psalm 106:8 (NKJV)
A while ago, I met someone who could rattle off not only the names of Jacob’s sons, but also the significance of their names. He spoke about the words Jacob spoke over them before he died. How these words and their names shaped their lives and the generations after them. This reminded me of the importance of names and what we think about when we hear a particular name. We think about their character, status, and the reputation they have built up in the various arenas of life. God’s character and reputation are also encapsulated in His many names, and He will act in a way that honours His name. He cannot deny who He is and will act accordingly. God’s reputation is, as it were, at stake.
If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (NKJV)
Not only will God not deny Himself, but He will not deny those who have chosen to follow Him. He will never deny us, even when we feel we have failed Him or sinned against Him. This will go against the essence of who He is as Saviour. He is always there to lift us up, to rescue us and restore us for the sake of His name.
Therefore say to the house of Israel, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “I do not do this for your sake, O house of Israel, but for My holy name’s sake. Ezekiel 36:22 (NKJV)
His Reputation
Whatever happens in our lives, whatever situation we find ourselves in, God is obliged to help us, to rescue us because His reputation is at stake. His holy name is at stake.
We can trust God to be who he says He is. When we lack provision, we can trust Him to be Jehovah Jireh, our provider (Genesis 22:14). When we need wisdom, we can ask our Omniscient God, and He will give us His wisdom (James 1:5). When our hearts and minds are in turmoil, we can call upon Jehovah Shalom to give us His peace. When our weary souls need sustenance, He is our bread of life (John 6:35). When we find ourselves in a spiritual battle, our Lord of Heaven’s Armies fights our battle for us (Psalm 46:7).
Whatever our need, we can call upon Him. El Roi, our God who sees us, is watching over us. El Shama, our God who hears, will hear our cry. Our compassionate and loving God will answer us.
So when we bring our petitions before God, let us do so knowing that God’s reputation, His name, is at stake. He will act according to His faithful character. Let’s ask God to answer our prayers for His holy name’s sake so His mighty power will be made known to us and be on display for others to see.
For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore, for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me. Psalm 31:3 (NKJV)
Reflection:
Will you ask God to rescue you for His name’s sake so that His power can be displayed?
Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, that You remain faithful even when I am faithless. Thank You that You will not deny yourself and You will not deny me. You see my needs. Lord, answer them for the sake of Your name, so that Your mighty power will be on display. In Jesus’ name, amen.
