HE KNOWS YOUR NAME
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.” Luke 1:26-27, ESV
Theme: No matter what you’re going through or how unsure you are, remember that God sees you and He knows your name.
TO KNOW AND BE KNOWN
In the early days of envisioning The Cove Church, we often talked about the "Cheers” sitcom theme song. In it, there are a few lines we really loved: “Where everybody knows your name...And they're always glad you came...” Obviously, the Church, the Body of Christ, can hardly be compared to a TV show about a local bar. Even so, whether it is at a small church or in a Life Group at a larger one, there is something attractive about knowing others and being known by them, in all your warts, worries, strengths, and weaknesses. To be connected, you must be willing to be known and be confident that someone knows and cares for you in return.
NO MATTER WHAT
When God favored Mary by announcing that she would be the mother of the Lord, He knew her. God knew her heart, her upbringing, and her future. He knew the joy and the pain that would come with her unique position. But He knew her, and He chose her. What is so astounding is that He also knows me, and He has chosen me for specific things, too.
Over this last year of some lingering sickness, grief, and other work and family situations, I grew weary. I was tired of ongoing issues, discouraged or frustrated in several areas. But God! I went to a funeral where my name was mentioned as a part of the start of a ministry. Later, I heard a life story where my name was listed as a catalyst for them personally. A letter came to The Cove, and I was a part of that story, too! Miraculously, God reminded me He knew my name. He had given me specific tasks, and when I obeyed, He used them in other’s lives. When they recalled my name and my part in their stories (so many in rapid succession that it couldn’t be coincidence), I couldn’t help but see God’s hand and feel His pleasure as well.
Make It Personal: Do you feel forgotten in your struggles? Is the road long and thankless? Whether you are entering mind-numbing data, cleaning up the house (all day long!), or being bossed about by an egotistical manager, God sees you! If you are weary, even of doing good, He sees you! He has a plan for your life and even your day. Your actions and reactions can be used by Him. Your obedience can make a difference in your life and in other people’s lives.
Pray: Dear God, I love You and Your Name. Thank You that I am known by You, and I can also know You. That relationship and intimacy are precious to me. Help me to grow in my confidence in Your love and care for me. Help me to show You my love by my obedience and trust in You. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Read: Isaiah 43:1-2; Jeremiah 1:5; Psalm 139:13-14; Luke 12:6-7
Weekly Memory Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11, ESV