byIn biblical tradition, calling on the name of the Lord holds deep meaning. God explicitly forbids using His name in vain, highlighting its sacred and powerful nature. That may even explain why some non-Christians instinctively call out to God during moments of fear or anxiety. There’s an inherent understanding in man of the power in the name of the Lord. Let’s not be mistaken, it is not a magical word that causes instant miracles. Calling on the name of Jesus is significant because it is the name by which we are saved as Christians. In 1 Corinthians 1:2, Paul wrote,
“To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”.
So, it stands as a pointer to their identity before God. Today, many Christians have lost sight of this powerful practice and its significant impact. Wondering how and why to call on His name? Read on.
The name of the Lord
Historically, the Bible shows us that calling on God’s name has been important since ancient times. In Genesis 4:26, people first “began to call on the name of the LORD.” Later, whenever Abraham built an altar, he “called on the name of the LORD.” Whenever Scripture mentioned people calling on God’s name, it indicated they were purposefully seeking His intervention, guidance, or protection.
In Psalm 116:4 and 116:13, the psalmist also calls on God’s name in times of distress and thanksgiving. By the New Testament, Acts 2:21 reiterates the promise that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Throughout history, people who called on God’s name did so with deep respect, knowing it wasn’t just saying words but a means to making a meaningful connection with God.
The power in His name
There is real power when you call on God’s name, as shown in Acts 19:13, where even those who weren’t true believers recognised the authority in Jesus’ name. Calling upon the name of the Lord goes beyond a religious routine. The name must be used with a purpose, faith and a right heart.
There is also no set time to call on His name or invoke Jesus’ name. When invoked with faith, the name of Jesus is powerful and capable of many things, including healing, as mentioned in James 5:14. Finally, His name was not only a pointer to the identity of God’s people but also a means of approaching God with confidence. So, Jesus taught His disciples to call on His name when praying because it was a means to come before God.
What happens when you call?
When you call on God’s name, several things happen. You draw strength, as described in Psalm 20:7 and Proverbs 18:10, where the Bible describes the Lord’s name as a “strong tower,” offering protection and salvation to believers. He comes to help you, as promised in Psalm 124:8. 1 Chronicles 21:19 also shows that the more you call on Him, the more constantly you find yourself in His presence, becoming more conscious of His presence in your daily life. Then again, His name carries the weight of an oath, showing God’s seriousness and commitment toward those who call upon Him in sincerity. Lastly, calling on his name gives you the chance to tap into God’s blessings (Psalm 118:26).
Conclusion
Today, many Christians have lost sight of this powerful practice of calling on the name of the Lord. At this point, if you don’t know how to pray in the quiet moments or at any moment of your life, begin with just calling on the name of the Lord. His name is powerful and can be an anchor to you in various points of need in your life. As mentioned, when invoked with faith, the name of Jesus is powerful and capable of many things, so make it a habit to call on the name of the Lord.
