The Power of His Name

Opening Verse

“Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?”
— James 2:7 (KJV)

Introduction

The name of Jesus is powerful. It is the name above all names, the name by which we are saved, and the name that carries authority in heaven and on earth. Yet, throughout history, people have mocked, rejected, and blasphemed His name. James warns believers about those who dishonor the name of Christ, especially those who misuse power and oppress others while claiming to follow Him. This verse calls us to stand firm in our faith and honor the name of Jesus in all we do.

Devotional Story

A woman worked in an office where people frequently mocked Christianity. Every time she mentioned her faith, some laughed, while others dismissed her as “old-fashioned.” At times, she felt discouraged and even questioned whether she should keep speaking about Jesus.

One day, a co-worker who had remained silent pulled her aside and said, “I’ve been watching you. You never waver in your faith, no matter what they say. I want to know more about Jesus.”

At that moment, she realized that though many mocked His name, there were still hearts longing for truth. She shared the gospel with her co-worker, and in time, that person gave their life to Christ.

What This Means

The world may mock Jesus, but His name remains powerful and unshaken. As believers, we must never be ashamed of Christ, for it is by His name that we are saved. When others blaspheme or dishonor Him, we must stand firm, living in a way that reflects the holiness of the name we bear.

Think About This

  • Have you ever hesitated to speak about Jesus because of fear of ridicule?
  • Do your actions bring honor to the name of Christ, or do they reflect the world?
  • How can you stand firm in your faith when others mock or reject Jesus?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, Your name is above every name, and I will not be ashamed to declare it. Strengthen me to stand firm in my faith, even when others mock or reject You. Let my life be a testimony that honors Your name and draws others to You. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.”
— Philippians 2:9 (KJV)

Boldness in Prayer

Opening Verse

 

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”  – Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

 

Introduction

Prayer is a powerful tool given to us by God. It is our direct line to communicate with Him. However, many of us approach prayer timidly, unsure if we are worthy or if God will listen. The Bible encourages us to come boldly to God’s throne. This boldness is not about arrogance but confidence in God’s love and promises.

 

Devotional Story

There was a man named David who had a deep relationship with God. He faced many challenges, from confronting Goliath to fleeing from King Saul. Despite these trials, David prayed with boldness. One night, when surrounded by enemies, he cried out to God, not with fear but with trust. “O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me,” he said. Yet, he concluded, “But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head” (Psalm 3:1, 3).

 

David’s boldness in prayer was rooted in his understanding of God’s character. He knew that God was his protector and provider. This confidence allowed him to approach God without hesitation, even in the direst circumstances.

 

What This Means

When we pray boldly, we acknowledge our faith in God’s ability to answer and His desire to help us. Bold prayer is an expression of our trust in His power and love. It does not mean demanding things from God but coming to Him with the assurance that He hears us and cares for us. This kind of prayer strengthens our relationship with God and opens our hearts to His guidance and peace.

 

Think About This

Are you hesitant in your prayers, unsure if God will respond? Reflect on the times God has been faithful in your life. Approach Him with confidence, knowing that He invites you to come boldly. Remember, bold prayer is not about our worthiness but about God’s gracious invitation to us.

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to come boldly before Your throne. Help us to approach You with confidence, trusting in Your love and mercy. Strengthen our faith and teach us to pray with boldness, knowing that You hear us and will provide for our needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Closing Verse

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.”

– 1 John 5:14 (KJV)