Airing Wisdom

“But now, this is what the Lord says –
he who created you…
he who formed you…:
‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’”

Isaiah 43:1 (NIV)

I was thinking about this verse and began to ponder the expression: “What’s in a name?”
Names are important. They’re given to us by our parents – often carrying meaning that is deeply precious. Sometimes it’s a scriptural reference, or that it honours someone loved – here now or gone ahead of us.
In some ways, a name can even shape our identity – subtly influencing how we see ourselves as we grow.

But the real weight of this verse, for me, lies in the marvel that God Himself calls us by name.
He knows us. Personally. Intimately.
And He calls us to Himself.

This truth reminded me of a very dark season in my life, when this single verse felt like a beam of light breaking through the shadows.
You know those moments – when you open your Bible and it feels like God is speaking directly to your heart? That was one of those times.

I remember journaling about it – how powerful and personal it felt to be reminded that I belong to Him.
To the One who sees me, truly knows me… and still loves me with an everlasting, unconditional love.

And the beautiful thing is – this promise isn’t just for me.
It’s for anyone who calls on the name of the Lord.

As I reflected, I began to gather other verses that echo this truth. I’ve listed them here for you, and I invite you to reflect on their truth.

Why not take some time to linger with these beautiful assurances of how deeply God knows and loves you?
Let His words settle into your soul. Journal your thoughts, whisper a prayer, paint or draw, write a poem – or even sing if that’s how He’s wired you. However God has gifted you to respond, let it become worship.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you. Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV)

The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. John 10:3 (ESV)

I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name. Exodus 33:17 (NIV)

The Lord knows those who are his. 2 Timothy 2:19 (NIV)

O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar…
Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. Psalm 139:1-4 (ESV)

I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it. Revelation 2:17 (NIV)

What’s the price of two or three pet canaries? Some loose change, right? But God never overlooks a single one. And he pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don’t be intimidated by all this bully talk. You’re worth more than a million canaries. Luke 12:7 (NIV)

If you feel comfortable, I’d love to hear how the Spirit met you as you reflected.
Did a particular verse stand out? Did it stir a memory, a question, or a fresh sense of hope?
Feel free to share in the comments – your story may be just what someone else needs to hear today.