“Glorify the Lord with me,” David invited. “Let us exalt his name together” (Psalm 34:3).
M-m-m. That’s puzzling. Why didn’t David say, “exalt his names?”
He has dozens—Creator, Father, Holy One, King, I AM, —to name just a few.
My question led to three observations.
One, most of us do have at least three names: first, last, and middle. Royals are often given multiple names. Prince William of Great Britain, for example, is actually William Arthur Philip Louis Windsor. Yet even when he’s asked to give his full name, that word name is used in singular form.
Two, most parents, including royalty, take great care in choosing names for their progeny. They not only consider how first, middle, and last sound when spoken together, they consider the meanings of the names.
Three, some moms and dads choose names that honor family members or friends. Perhaps they hope the name will also bequeath to their child the positive traits and accomplishments of the honorees.
Based on these observations, it would seem appropriate to do the following when we desire to praise or rejoice in God’s name:
- Think on at least several of his names
- Consider their meanings, especially as they relate to personal experience
- Meditate on the attributes and accomplishments of God associated with that name
Let’s try it. The name-list above offers a start.
God of heaven and earth, you are Creator of all. My mind cannot begin to fathom your power, wisdom, and creative genius that brought this universe into existence—out of nothing. From vast planetary movements to intricate ecosystems, your divine proficiency produces perfect function.
You are the Holy One of the universe—completely righteous and totally separate from anything or anyone else. You are the only one who is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent. There is no one like you.
Yet you are my Heavenly Father! You lovingly and patiently care for me, providing guidance and instruction on how best to live. You graciously bestow blessings—sometimes special desires of my heart, and even serendipity gifts that I haven’t asked for.
You are the King of the universe, in control of everything. But unlike some rulers, you know what you’re doing. Everything you do is perfect. I can trust you with the concerns of my life because of your great wisdom and understanding.
You are the great I AM, who always was and always will be. You live in a perpetual present tense. And you are always the same—dependable and faithful, loving and gracious to your children.
Thank you, God, for revealing these names to us—and many more. They help us to understand who you are and how you respond to your children. And as we meditate upon them, our hearts are filled with wordless wonder and overwhelming gratitude.
With David we glory in your holy name(Psalm 105:3)!
_________________________
Photo credits: www.ourdailyblossom.com; http://www.fishwallpaper.net; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.wallpapercave.com.
(Reblogged from January 28, 2013)
From the Inside Out 
We just recently found out that my oldest great-niece is expecting their second child. It is great fun tossing names around; if this one is a girl they plan to name her after my Mom’s middle name (Leah). Middle name could possibly be Nevaeh…’Heaven’ spelled backwards…or Faith. We also consider what the monogram (first, middle, last initials) will be. So this is a timely entry in your blog! I so love that God is my Father…and that He is always taking care of me and watching out for me and my loved ones. And though my earthly Dad has joined God in Heaven…my Heavenly Father is with me here and now and always will be. What a Blessing as we navigate this world…
How wonderful — another baby on the way! Choosing a name IS a multi-faceted decision, isn’t it. As for calling God our Father — how amazing is that?! Blessing after blessing after blessing…!
i think this approach, like narrowing our focus, paying attention to one aspect of God. Good idea Nancy!
Thank you, Jean!