Called by a New Name

Key Scripture

“She will bear a son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” — Matthew 1:21 (ESV)

Devotion

As a mother, I distinctly remember the struggle of naming each of my children. I wanted names that reflected their heritage, their devotion to God, and a name worthy of the lives I prayed they would live.

When Mary and Joseph were given the name for Jesus, there was no question about what He would be called. His name was chosen by God Himself. The name Jesus means "The Lord saves." From the very beginning, His name revealed His purpose. He came to save us!

I often think about the names God gave or changed throughout Scripture. Abram became Abraham, and Simon became Peter. These weren't simply changes in what people were called; they marked significant moments in their journeys with God. Their identities and their purposes were being transformed.

It makes me wonder: What does God call you?

Have you allowed the labels of your past, your mistakes, your disappointments, or even the opinions of others to define who you are? Or have you embraced the identity God has given you?

Scripture tells us that we are chosen, redeemed, beloved, and children of God. We are no longer defined by who we used to be, but by whose we are!

This holiday season, when life can become so busy and the world seems to have a name or label for everyone, I encourage you to slow down and listen. Listen for the name your Heavenly Father calls you.

My beloved daughter. Precious child. Chosen. Redeemed. Forgiven.

Let the One who created you define you. Let Him remind you of who you are and whose you are.

And above every name we could ever be given, let us never forget the name above all names: JESUS!

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You in the precious and mighty name of Jesus, thanking You that our identity is not determined by the world, our past, or the labels others have placed upon us.

Lord, help us to see ourselves through Your eyes. Remind us that we are chosen, loved, forgiven, redeemed, and called Your children. When we struggle to recognize our worth, quiet the voices that tell us otherwise and help us hear Your truth.

This Christmas season, amidst the busyness and distractions, draw us closer to You. Teach us to slow down, listen for Your voice, and walk confidently in the purpose You have placed within us.

And may the name of Jesus always be on our lips, in our hearts, and reflected in the way we live.

In the mighty and matchless name of Jesus, we pray.

Amen!

Personal Growth Scriptures

1. Isaiah 43:1 — God calls us by name, and we belong to Him.

2. Isaiah 62:2 — God promises His people a new name.

3. Genesis 17:5 — Abram becomes Abraham, marking God's covenant and purpose.

4. John 1:42 — Jesus gives Simon the name Cephas (Peter).

5. 1 Peter 2:9 — We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and God's special people.

6. Ephesians 1:4–7 — Chosen, adopted, accepted, and redeemed through Christ.

7. Romans 8:15–16 — We have received the Spirit of adoption and can call God our Father.

8. Revelation 2:17 — The promise of a new name known to the one who receives it.

9. Philippians 2:9–11 — God has given Jesus the name above every name.