Bible Society of South Africa

The Name and Word of God exalted – 7 December 2022

By Carina Francke

Bible text(s)

Psalms 138

A Prayer of Thanksgiving

1I thank you, LORD, with all my heart;

I sing praise to you before the gods.

2I face your holy Temple,

bow down, and praise your name

because of your constant love and faithfulness,

because you have shown that your name and your commands are supreme.

3You answered me when I called to you;

with your strength you strengthened me.

Psalms 138:1-3GNBOpen in Bible reader

In this psalm, David sings the praises of the name of the Lord’s saving love and faithfulness. Other gods or rulers can stand back – only the Lord God Almighty is good and worthy enough to be celebrated in song. He is the only one of whom can be said, “You have exalted above all things your name and your word” (Psalm 138:2). This implies that nothing and nobody can dethrone the power and authority locked up in the name of the Lord and his word. Before the beginning, he was, now, he is and he will be forever, until eternity.

The Lord introduces himself to man by his name and by his word. His name represents the essence of who he is, but also his glory and power. What he says is always life and truth from his deity. In addition, do not forget, his name saves, brings salvation and deliverance to all people. Just in case you wonder, no, his works cannot be attributed to magical powers in his name! He himself put his name and word above all things.

When the name of the Lord and his word are believed and called upon, nothing can prevail against God’s superior, powerful moving hand. Sick people are healed, freed, saved and more. Why? Because “in his name” and on the authority of the Lord’s word, every disease, bondage and fear must flee, permanently!

If you struggle with sickness, worries, a stronghold, depression, grief, etc. take a courageous step of faith and follow David’s example – call upon the highest authority: “On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased.” (Psalm 138:3)

By the way, can you see why the Bible forbids using his name in vain or using it lightly? His name is holy, powerful and, as such, should be honoured.

Prayer: My heavenly Father, thank you that the eminence of your name and your word bow the knee before nothing and nobody. Its authority changes all incidents of yesterday, the fear for today and tomorrow, into a joyous laugh. Your word and your name are truly above all things. Let me never forget that. Amen

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