Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Hi Dear Friends. Reflecting on this week’s events whereupon I have engaged in more prayer and praise as of late, there’s something unmistakable: The name of Jesus will take you there. Sitting in the quietness of my worship space, the mere utterance of His Name…my body even responds in such a way as to give Him reverence as best as a mere human can. Sometimes it’s just the uplifting of my hand(s) that signifies His nearness to me and presence. Thank you Lord for being a God who desires to be near us, loves us and is interested in our needs great and small.  The name of Jesus is powerful. Who would use His Name for any other purposes other than to worship Him? Some use His name recklessly, unaware of the power and authority it holds.

Today I share with you this morning’s devotional from Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. The devotionals are rooted in scripture and presented in the perspective of Jesus speaking to

you. It reads:

“WHENEVER YOU FEEL DISTANT from Me, whisper My Name in loving trust. This simple prayer can restore your awareness of My Presence.

MY Name is constantly abused in the world, where people use it as a curse word. This verbal assault reaches all the way to heaven; every word is heard and recorded. When you trustingly whisper My Name, My aching ears are soothed. The grating rancor of the world’s blasphemies cannot compete with a trusting child’s utterance: “Jesus.” The power of My Name to bless both you and Me is beyond your understanding.”

Accompanying Scriptures: John 16:24, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”  Acts 4:12, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”

Hallelujah for His Name!

Thank you Lord for all you have done for me. Jesus, I lift up your name, which is above all names. I am reminded of this song’s words:

Daily I will worship thee

Lamb of God who died for me

Who extendeth endless mercy

Daily I will worship thee

May you find him ever so near to you today, as near as calling on His Name.