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- Oct 26, 2007
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But You, O GOD the Lord, Deal with me for Your name's sake; Because Your mercy [is] good, deliver me. Psalm 109:21 NKJV
Your literal name may be Nick, Brad, Guy, or Jerome. But your figurative name is the reputation by which people know you. This “name,” if you’ve lived wisely, might be Honest, Generous, Helpful, Compassionate…or a combination of several. “A good name,” according to Proverbs, “is more desirable than great riches” (22:1).
That’s how God views His own name—and it’s why He demands no one “misuse” it (Exodus 20:7). Certainly, to quote the old King James Version, taking God’s name “in vain” includes making a curse word of it. But we also dishonor His name when we claim God as Father while living carelessly.
In spite of the ancient Israelites’ extensive sin, God kept His promises “for the sake of my holy name” (Ezekiel 36:22). As Christian men, let’s aspire to be more like David, author of today’s scripture. He was far from perfect, as each of us is. But he knew where to find hope and help—and that was solely in God.
David recognized that the Lord is eager to bless His own for the sake of His name. When we consciously acknowledge our weakness and sin, the door to His blessing is unlocked. God’s name is the key to help, in every aspect of life.
Prayer: Lord, Your name is true and good and worthy of all praise. Please help me for Your name’s sake!
Your literal name may be Nick, Brad, Guy, or Jerome. But your figurative name is the reputation by which people know you. This “name,” if you’ve lived wisely, might be Honest, Generous, Helpful, Compassionate…or a combination of several. “A good name,” according to Proverbs, “is more desirable than great riches” (22:1).
That’s how God views His own name—and it’s why He demands no one “misuse” it (Exodus 20:7). Certainly, to quote the old King James Version, taking God’s name “in vain” includes making a curse word of it. But we also dishonor His name when we claim God as Father while living carelessly.
In spite of the ancient Israelites’ extensive sin, God kept His promises “for the sake of my holy name” (Ezekiel 36:22). As Christian men, let’s aspire to be more like David, author of today’s scripture. He was far from perfect, as each of us is. But he knew where to find hope and help—and that was solely in God.
David recognized that the Lord is eager to bless His own for the sake of His name. When we consciously acknowledge our weakness and sin, the door to His blessing is unlocked. God’s name is the key to help, in every aspect of life.
Prayer: Lord, Your name is true and good and worthy of all praise. Please help me for Your name’s sake!
