THE GOD WHO CALLS YOU BY NAME

THE GOD WHO CALLS YOU BY NAME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 43:1 – “But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

Supporting Texts: John 10:3-4; Exodus 3:4; Luke 19:5; Jeremiah 1:5

Description: God’s personal knowledge of and relationship with His children shows His love, purpose, and intimate involvement in our lives.

INTRODUCTION:
Many people feel overlooked in a world where individuality is often lost in the crowd. Yet the God of heaven assures us that He knows us personally, even calling us by name. This is not a casual acknowledgment; it is a deliberate and loving act that shows His deep interest in our lives.

In Isaiah 43:1, God reminds His people that He created, redeemed, and named them. To be called by name by the Creator of the universe is to be valued beyond measure. It affirms our identity, security, and purpose in Him. His knowledge of us is not superficial—He knows our struggles, dreams, and fears.

Understanding that God calls you by name transforms how you live. It banishes fear, builds confidence, and inspires obedience. When you realise that the Almighty is personally invested in your destiny, you can face challenges with courage and walk in His purpose with assurance.

1. GOD’S CALL AFFIRMS YOUR IDENTITY
Being called by name shows that God knows you intimately and has chosen you deliberately.

a) Created and known by God (Psalm 139:13-16)
God formed you in your mother’s womb; your life is no accident.

b) Chosen for a purpose (Jeremiah 1:5)
Before you were born, God had already set you apart for His plans.

c) Loved personally, not generically (John 10:3)
Jesus calls His sheep by name, showing His care for each one individually.

d) Your identity is secure in Him (Isaiah 49:16)
Your name is engraved on His hands; you are never forgotten.

Biblical Example: God called Moses by name from the burning bush (Exodus 3:4), affirming his identity and divine assignment.

2. GOD’S CALL REMOVES FEAR AND INSECURITY
When God calls you by name, you can face life’s challenges with confidence.

a) God’s presence banishes fear (Isaiah 43:1-2)
His assurance allows you to walk through deep waters without drowning.

b) God’s voice brings peace (John 20:16)
Mary Magdalene’s fear and sorrow vanished when Jesus called her name after His resurrection.

c) Knowing God’s ownership brings security (John 10:28-29)
You are held securely in His hands, beyond the enemy’s reach.

d) Confidence grows when you know you belong to God (Romans 8:15-16)
As His children, we can cry “Abba, Father” without fear.

Biblical Example: When Hagar fled into the wilderness, God called her by name and reassured her of His care (Genesis 16:7-13).

3. GOD’S CALL DIRECTS YOUR DESTINY
God calls you by name to lead you into His divine plan.

a) God’s call sets you on the right path (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Acknowledging Him ensures your steps are divinely guided.

b) He calls you to specific assignments (Acts 9:4-6)
Saul’s encounter on the Damascus road redirected his life for God’s glory.

c) God reveals His plans through personal calling (Isaiah 6:8)
Hearing His voice leads to purposeful living.

d) Obedience to His call unlocks blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Those who follow His instructions experience His favour.

Biblical Example: Jesus called Zacchaeus by name from the sycamore tree (Luke 19:5), leading to his salvation and transformation.

4. GOD’S CALL COMFORTS IN TIMES OF TROUBLE
In seasons of pain or loneliness, hearing God’s personal call restores hope.

a) God draws near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18)
He knows your pain and calls you tenderly.

b) His voice calms storms within (Mark 4:39)
When He speaks your name, anxiety gives way to peace.

c) God reminds you of His ownership (Isaiah 41:10)
You are never abandoned in hardship.

d) His call assures you of His unfailing love (Romans 8:38-39)
Nothing can separate you from His care.

Biblical Example: After Peter’s denial, Jesus personally restored him, calling him to renewed purpose (John 21:15-17).

5. GOD’S CALL DEMANDS RESPONSE AND OBEDIENCE
Hearing God’s call by name invites a response of faithfulness.

a) God calls you to salvation (Revelation 3:20)
Opening your heart to Him is the first step of obedience.

b) God calls you to service (Matthew 4:19)
He desires your active participation in His kingdom work.

c) Delayed obedience can hinder destiny (Jonah 1:1-3)
Rejecting His call leads to unnecessary storms.

d) Responding to God’s voice brings blessings (James 1:22-25)
Doers of the Word experience His favour and fruitfulness.

Biblical Example: Samuel responded, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears” (1 Samuel 3:10), demonstrating readiness to obey God’s voice.

CONCLUSION:
The God who calls you by name is not distant or detached; He is deeply personal and intentional. His call affirms your identity, removes your fears, directs your steps, comforts your heart, and invites your obedience.

Therefore, live with the confidence that the Creator of the universe knows you personally and has a purpose for your life. Let His voice be the loudest in your life, guiding you to walk boldly in His will and plan for your destiny.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for knowing me by name and choosing me for Your purpose.
2. Father, silence every other voice so I can clearly hear Yours.
3. Lord, remove every fear and insecurity from my heart.
4. Father, align my steps with Your divine direction.
5. Lord, comfort me in seasons of pain and uncertainty.
6. Father, help me to respond promptly and faithfully to Your call.
7. Lord, reveal more of Your plans and assignments for my life.
8. Father, let my life reflect Your ownership and glory.
9. Lord, strengthen me to remain obedient even when it’s difficult.
10. Father, make my life a testimony of Your personal love and guidance.

GOD’S WORD FOR YOU TODAY:
1. You shall walk in confidence knowing God calls you by name.
2. You shall never feel abandoned, for God has claimed you as His own.
3. You shall hear the voice of God clearly in every season.
4. You shall overcome fear and insecurity by His assurance.
5. You shall be directed into divine opportunities and blessings.
6. You shall experience God’s comfort in every trial you face.
7. You shall respond to His call with boldness and obedience.
8. You shall fulfil the destiny God has uniquely designed for you.
9. You shall carry the assurance of God’s love wherever you go.
10. You shall be a living witness that the God of heaven knows His children by name.