Name Calling

2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

“Name Calling” The “If – Then” of this verse is a definite promise made to a particular group, the people called by God’s name. That is an interesting connection for the Holy Spirit to make five hundred years before the birth of Christ, before there was a church or a people called by the name of Christ. Historically this promise was made to Israel which is translated “Prince with God” but prophetically Isaiah was looking through the ages to a people that were not, but would be. A people that would be established by God and called by His name. It was in Antioch that the disciples of “The Way” were first called Christians (Acts 11:26) and a people that are called by His name became God’s people.
So we are that people! What a privilege to be called by His name. Scripture uses the type of marriage to describe our union with Christ. He is the Bridegroom and The Church is His Bride. As the married wife, our name has been changed and we are called by His name giving us the authority of the Husband. At the name of Jesus demons flee and chains of bondage are destroyed. We have access to the Throne of Grace by no other name than the name of Jesus. John 14:12 tells us, “I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” There is nothing more powerful! There is no greater calling! And there is no greater responsibility than to be called a Christian!. Created in His image and called by His name our destiny is laid out before us. If we will humble ourselves and pray, seek God’s face and turn from our wicked ways God will heal our land.