A Precious Name
Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him
and given Him the name which is above every name.
Philippians 2:9
Names are important in the Bible, often reflecting a person’s character traits or new role. For instance, God changed the names of Abram and Sarai when He made a covenant of love with them, promising that He would be their God and they would be His people. Abram, which means “exalted father,” became Abraham, which means “father of many.” And Sarai, which means “princess,” became Sarah, which means “princess of many” (see Genesis 17:5, 15).
God’s new names included the gracious promise that they would no longer be childless. When Sarah gave birth to their son, they were overjoyed and named him Isaac, which means “he laughs”: “Sarah said, ‘God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me’ ” (Genesis 21:6).
Each of us possesses a name. It is a name given to us by our parents. Perhaps we were named after some relative, or we were just given a name that our parents liked. Whatever the reason and however you came by your name, there is probably no great significance behind your name or mine.
In today's Bible reading, however, we are told of a name that does have great significance. It is a name that is above all other names; The name of Jesus! Not only is Jesus exalted by the Father, but the whole world is brought into submission by this name. Then we are told in v 11: Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father: He is the Messiah, the Son of God. The title, “Christ,” is Greek meaning "anointed one" or Messiah.
Do you know Him? Have you experienced the power behind the name? If you have, then you know why this is a name above every other name. You know why Jesus Christ is exalted and why just the mention of that precious name can speak peace to the troubled, comfort to the hurting, life to the dead, joy to the sad, hope for the hopeless and glory to the saved soul.
Bible Reading
Philippians 2:1-11.
Prayer
Great Wonder-working God, Thank You for the Name that is above all names; Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Help me to share the Gospel with those I meet. In His precious name I pray. Amen.
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