Devotional : The Name of Jesus

“Don’t be afraid, Mary,… you will… give birth to a Son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus” (Luke 1:30-31).

The name ‘Jesus’ means ‘The Lord saves’. In the corresponding passage in Matthew’s Gospel, Joseph is also told to give the child “the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins” (1:21).

What an amazing name ‘Jesus’ is. Through His name and the sacrifice He made, the penalty of sin hanging over mankind was removed forever. As a result, millions and millions of people through history have received the salvation and forgiveness of God that transforms lives completely. The salvation Jesus gives includes the following blessings as shown by the Apostle John in his first epistle.

• Our sins are removed (3:5)
• The devil’s work is destroyed (3:8)
• The Father’s love is revealed (4:9)
• Eternal life is given (5:11-12)

Have you received the saving grace of Jesus? If not, why don’t you receive Him into your heart as your own Savior? This would be the greatest decision you could ever make for Jesus will forgive you of all sin and fill you with His joy and peace. He will also bring you into relationship with the living God and grant you eternal life through His unfailing love.

Jesus is also waiting to break all of the devil’s influence upon your life!

A lady I know came for one of our Christmas services a few years ago on an invitation given by a friend who runs a pre-school. She only attended because she mistakenly thought that it was the Christmas concert of the school.  As she came forward seeking prayer for a personal need, she was moved to accept Jesus as her Savior. Her life was transformed powerfully that night through the saving grace of Jesus! That’s what He can do for you too! As the famous Gospel song says, ‘It is no secret what God can do’.

Prayer – Lord, I invite you into my heart today. Forgive me of my sin and become my Lord and Savior. Break satan’s power over my life. Fill me with your peace and help me to live for you from now on. In Jesus name, amen!

Closing Thought – Jesus brought God to man. His cross brings man to God.