Morning Moments

HIS NAME'S SAKE

(1 Sam 12:22) For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

(Psa 23:3) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

(Psa 106:8) Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known.

(Isa 66:5) Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

(1 Jn 2:12) I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

(3 Jn 1:7) Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

In Psalm 23, when David is writing about the Lord as his Shepherd and describing all the wonderful things the Shepherd, who is, of course, the LORD, has done for him, he writes this amazing and insightful phrase in verse three - "for his name's sake."

Think about it! The Shepherd's name is at stake in his care for his sheep, so if he doesn't do what is his duty to do and what he has agreed and promised to do, his name is tarnished. No such thing could ever happened to that name which is above every name - The LORD, Jesus Christ! "He is faithful who has promised who WILL do it." It is why he does not sit idly by and let his sheep wander. He goes after them. It is why he does not allow his sheep to remain downcast. He lifts them up, holds them up, and gives them the personal attention they need.

He provides for his sheep, protects them, guides them, feeds them, and leads them all "for his name's sake." Don't be mistaken, He loves us, has compassion upon us, chastens us, challenges us, and charges us, BUT it is characteristic of His Name to do it. His name is never tarnished nor tainted. It is matchless and majestic! His name is who He is and He cannot be other than who He is.

It is why we pray "for Your Name's sake, O, Lord."

Today, as you face the uncertainties of your life, remember to ask Him to guide and guard you, and to lead you in the paths of righteousness - "for His Name's sake."

BLESSINGS!