The Glory of God’s Name (GG)
THE GLORY OF GOD’S NAME
Old Testament writers made much of the name of God. Israel was a nation specifically set apart as a place for God to put His name. Appeals were made on the basis of the name. “For thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me,” the psalmist prayed. Not because of who I am, not in recognition of my reputation, but because of who You are. “And his name will be called ‘Wonderful Counselor.’” “The Lord is my banner.” “Lord God of Hosts.” No questions of merit can arise with regard to that name. It is above every name. Therefore I can come today on the ground of that name’s merit.
The prayer that Jesus taught His disciples begins with the petition, “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.” Whatever our requests may be that bring us to His feet, they should begin with a careful consideration of the meaning of this form of address. If we say the words slowly and thoughtfully, they cannot help but color the rest of the prayer. If it is guidance we are asking, we may be very wrong in our hopes as to the direction it will take. We may be ill-prepared in heart for the road God will choose for us. But, as George MacDonald wrote: “The thought of Him to whom that prayer goes will purify and correct the desire.”
If we did not have God’s unequivocal promise, the words, “Guide me, for the sake of Your name” would sound outrageously presumptuous. But the truth is that God said He would do just this. There is nothing presumptuous or precarious about it. The validity of the divine word is at stake, and that is a very sure foundation.