FAITH CAPSULE: This day, who do you say He is in your life?

Luke 9:18-22, John 1

It will be very difficult to find anyone in the Bible that does not live the meaning of their name. Here are few names that can be identified: Joshua–God is Salvation; Samson–Strong; Delilah–Delicate; Josiah–Jehovah supports; and Samuel–Asked of God; Emmanuel—God with us. Among all names Immanuel (Jesus) is the only name that carries power. The name and meaning as they relate to the bearer goes on through the Bible. When the twelve were sent to preach, at their return Jesus wanted to know from his disciples whom the crowds say He was. The disciples responded and gave the name of Elijah and the names of the old prophets. Then He went further to inquire again in Luke 9:20, “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered and said, ‘The Christ of God.’”  This day, who do you say He is in your life? Do you actually understand the name that you call on? Christ is the anointed one. It is possible to know about Him and not know Him. The Bible described Naaman, “Now Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master, because by him the LORD had given victory to Syria. He was also a mighty man of valor, but a leper.” (2 Kings 5:1) The point here is, despite all that God did for Naaman, Naaman did not know God until he was healed and he testified after his healing, “…Indeed, now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel…” (2 Kings 5:15) Just like Naaman, there are so many that are enjoying the goodness and mercy of God in Christ Jesus and does not know Jesus. Many know about Him and many celebrate His birth. However, not knowing Him is not having life. Many have confused knowing about Him with knowing Him. The point is, the ones that actually know Him are also known in Him. In this season of celebration, celebrate Him as the Lord and savior and not as Santa from the North Pole. Jesus is the reason for the season. Know Him today as Jesus–Yahweh saves, Immanuel–God with us, Light of the World–One who brings hope and gives guidance, Son of David–One who brings in the Kingdom, Chief Shepherd–Gives guidance and protection, Chief Cornerstone–A sure foundation of life, Firstborn from the Dead–Leads us into resurrection, and Word–Eternal God who ultimately reveals God. Choose any of the few of His names listed, use it and apply it to any area that you have need for, and owe no man or force any apology for calling or claiming the name above all names. He alone is a faithful God and He will answer His name.

Prayer for today: Ask the grace to keep you from running out of God’s mercy.