JEREMIAH 15:16
Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart;
for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.
It is a tremendous responsibility to bear someone’s name. From the pages of history we learn of a
cowardly young soldier in the army of Alexander the Great. Whenever the battle grew fierce, the
young soldier would withdraw to safety.
The general called him to account and asked, “What’s your name, soldier?” When the timid soldier
replied, “Alexander, sir,” Alexander the Great sternly warned him, “Either change your name or
change your ways.”
Jeremiah proudly declared, “I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.” By this he meant, “I
bear your name.” Jeremiah’s life reflected how seriously he took that privilege. In spite of opposition
and, at times, physical persecution, he stood firm for God.
The realization that he belonged to God was a constant reminder to Jeremiah that he needed to reflect
His character. Unflinchingly he served his name’s sake, even though, according to tradition, it
ultimately resulted in him being placed in a hollow log and sawed in half. Every Christian needs to
remember that he or she bears the name of Christ.
God’s Word will be a joy to us when we seek to live in a way that does not bring shame to the name
of our Lord. As we study His Word and make it a part of our daily lives, we will find our heart
rejoicing in our relationship with Him. We will find it ever more precious that we are called by His
name.
Never forget the name you bear–you are a “Christ”ian. If you want to find joy in that relationship,
take time regularly to read God’s Word. Prayerfully consider how you might live out that Word so you
will show those around you what it means to be called by His name.
EVERY CHRISTIAN BEARS CHRIST’S NAME; LIVE AS AN HONOR TO HIS NAME.
WOODROW KROLL
www.backtothebible.in