We all have one.
We have our official birth name, which most of us are known by but some of us have chosen to use a different name or have even changed our name. Names are important and meaningful. We can spend a lot of time choosing a name for a child, a pet, a business, a car, a church or a program. What are your names? Are you called by a pet name, or an affectionate name of endearment?
I was at a conference recently where the guest speaker talked about the positive psychological effect of using a person’s name three times upon meeting them. He said besides aiding us in remembering that person’s name, it created a sense for that person of being liked and of liking you but not knowing why. Using people’s name in a conversation isn’t new, it’s been taught in business and sales training for decades. However, it was a timely reminder of a simple way of showing people we care for them and especially helpful in ‘welcoming the stranger’.
A person’s name can fill us with fear and dread or with love and warm memories. Can you think of someone who makes you laugh? Or who makes you cry?
What emotion do you experience when you hear the name Jesus? Sometimes I feel guilty when I remember how impatient I have just been. Sometimes I feel convicted when I have just judged another. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed when I think about His love and sacrifice for me. Other times I’m relaxed and peaceful. Sometimes I’m reminded to pray fervently in the name of Jesus because there is power in His name. Do I call His name enough? Probably not!
- The name of Jesus is above all names. Philippians 2:9-10
- Believing in His name saves us. John1:12
- We are baptised in the name of Jesus and receive forgiveness of sins. Acts 2:38
- We are commanded to believe in the name of Jesus and to love one another. 1John 3:23
- His other names are Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
Let’s be a company of women who believe in and call the name of Jesus.