“As God did not at first choose you because you were so high, so he will not forsake because you are so low.” –John Flavel
A person’s name is only as full as the person’s character allows it to be. A person may have an extremely well-respected reputation or have achieved some degree of fame but with the passage of time comes the revelation of their character. This works to enhance or diminish their reputation. God’s name is the fullest, most wonderful name because it is based on his faultless and loving character.
David, through his personal knowledge of God, was convinced of God’s loving character. David rejoiced in the Lord’s ability and willingness to shield his people. David penned these words:
9 The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.
10 And those who know your name put their trust in you,
for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:9-10, ESV)
“And those who know your name put their trust in you” David insightfully displays that a little knowledge of God must precede the prayer of faith. One of our favorite Puritans, Thomas Watson, agrees, “Knowledge must carry the torch before faith.” [Treasury of David, 103.] The apostle witnesses to the same truth when he writes, “But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me.” (2 Tim. 1:12, ESV, emphasis mine) God desires that his people know him and in knowing him, trust him.
One way to grow in our confidence in the Lord is to reflect on the names given to places where the saints have encountered God. God, in his tender mercy, sent a ram to Abraham this sparing his son, Isaac. Abraham called that place – ‘Jehovah-jireh’ or ‘The LORD will provide.’ (Genesis 22:14, KJV) Are you confident today in the Lord’s provision? God gave the victory to Moses over the Amalekites. In response to this, Moses built an altar and named it – ‘Jehovah-nissi’ or ‘The LORD is my banner.’ (Exodus 17:15, KJV) Are you confident today in the Lord’s victory?
God called Gideon to serve him and calmed his fears. So Gideon built an altar and named it – ‘Jehovah-shalom’ or ‘The LORD is peace.’ (See Judges 6:24) Are you confident today in the Lord’s peace? God gave a vision to Ezekiel. In that vision Jerusalem is called – ‘Jehovah Shammah’ or ‘The LORD is there.’ (See Ezekiel 48:35) Today can you testify to the presence of God in your life? If you are struggling, then remember the confidence of David, “for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.” Seek him today and trust his good name. Have a blessed week and we will see you at Crossroads Church this Sunday.
Your humble servant in the Lord Christ, to be commanded,
Pastor Dale