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FOR GOD’S NAME’S SAKE

  • Writer: Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
    Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
  • Jun 27
  • 4 min read

Today’s reading:

Ezekiel 20:39-44

“Then you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have dealt with you for my name’s sake, not according to your wicked ways nor according to your corrupt doings….” (v.44)

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In today’s explosive and perverted world, it is common to hear people boast or challenge others on something, based on their past reputation, good records, wealth, exposure, family or ancestral name, personal name, etc. We have heard statements like – ‘what is in a name', “what does that name amount to”? These are derogatory sentences implying that names do not carry weight or are not significant! First, what is a “Name”? It is basically what men use to identify and distinguish each other, one from another. In the scripture, names are known to carry weight and character, and many are tied to the owner’s destinies. Names meant a lot to God that, He changed some people’s names when He wanted to do something different or amazing in their lives, e.g. Abraham, (Gen. 17:5). God was so mindful of names that He spoke or gave some people’s names before they were born e.g. Jesus (Matt. 1:21); Isaiah (Is. 49:1); Jeremiah (Jer.1:5); John the Baptist, etc. In ancient cultures and in the scriptures, it was a general belief that to know someone’s name was to know his or her total character and nature. In the current secular world, studies have indicated that names have the potential to influence a person’s behaviour, physical appearance, career path, life choices, popularity, and how others perceive one.


Scripture has recorded many names by which God is known and called, especially in the Old Testament books. While some of them are based on his might, such as Eloah (Almighty God), El Elyon (Most High), El Olam (Everlasting), Elohim (creator), El Shaddai (Almighty), others are based on/related to his attributes/character. These include: Jehovah-Jireh (provider), Rapha (healer), M’kaddesh (sanctifier), Tseidkem (righteous), Rohi (shepherd), Sabaoth (Lord of hosts). Summarily, the “Names of God” are together significant because they reveal his identity, nature and character.

It is said that the importance of a name is that it stirs up emotions, fosters connection and promotes inclusivity. In addition to these, the “Name of God” gives confidence, trust and assurance. To use or call on the “Name of God” is a way to acknowledge and key into all the important aspects of his name. No wonder it is said in Prov. 22 v1 that a good name is chosen rather than great riches, loving favour (from God), rather than silver and gold. In Ps. 148 v 13, we are commanded to praise the name of the Lord God, for his name alone is exalted.


Many benefits accrue to believers for God’s name’s sake:

In verses 22 and 44 of Today’s reading, God confirmed through the prophet Ezekiel that He had dealt and acted in favour of the Israelites, for His Name’s sake! For clarity, God pointed out that his action was not based on or according to the wicked ways or the corrupt doings of the people. Rather, He dealt with them for his “Name’s sake”. This brings to mind the scripture that says God does not judge us according to our sins. Rather, He shows us mercy in place of judgment, for his name’s sake. Another instance where God had shown his unfailing love for his great name’s sake is in 1 Sam. 12:22, where God said He had made the people of Israel His people for his name’s sake.  


As believers, we have the assurance, among many others, that for God’s name’s sake, He leads us in the path of righteousness (Ps. 23:3), so long as we retain him as our “Shepherd” – Jehovah Rohi. Also, He is our provider, healer, sanctifier, warrior, peace, righteousness, for his name’s sake!

If you have not made him your LORD and salvation, by accepting Jesus, His Son, whom He sent to the world to reconcile mankind back to him after the fall of Adam and Eve in Eden, then you have no part in these benefits. Accept Jesus into your life and become God’s child, and all his benefits, including the cover under his name’s sake, will be yours.

                                                                        CHRISTIE KUPOLUYI


To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.” 

If you said the prayer, Congratulations! You are welcome to the body of Christ. Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.



Prayer:

  1. Heavenly Father, your name is wonderful, it is excellent, it is marvellous.

  2. Precious Lord, we are grateful for your sacrifice for our sins and the gift of your wonderful name as our shield and buckler.

  3. Father, please teach us to appreciate and know the benefits that derive from your Name.

  4. Father, open the eyes of the church leaders to teach the believers what they are to get from your Name’s sake.

  5. Father, help the nation to enjoy a great revival for your Name’s sake.

 
 
 

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