Names for God: Devotions From Time of GraceSample

Immanuel

“Born as man with man to dwell, Jesus, our Immanuel.”—Charles Wesley, 1739

Wesley’s magnificent Christmas carol, without the singing of which it wouldn’t really be Christmas, celebrates one of the most precious names that Scripture gives to our Savior. As Joseph was waking from his incredible angelic dream, the evangelist Matthew links the stunning news to messianic prophecy from Isaiah chapter 9: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’)” (Matthew 1:22, 23).

Here is more Hebrew: "Im" means “with.” "Immanu" means “with us.” "El" is the name of our God. The name that Isaiah and the angel wanted you to know and appreciate and use is based on God’s powerful promise never to leave or forsake you. Jesus’ “Immanuel” name celebrates the astounding fact that God came in person to bring about the rescue of the human race. Without Immanuel, all people caught up in Satan’s rebellion would also be caught up in the devastating condemnation and punishment that are hanging over his slimy head.

When you are fearful and depressed, call out Immanuel’s name. When you feel guilty and unworthy, call on Immanuel. When you feel overwhelmed and alone, call on Immanuel and rejoice at the absolute certainty that because he came here for us in person, we will spend eternity with him.

In person.