What does praising God by name mean?
Praising God by name means much more than simply using “God” or “Lord” or “Christ” in our worship. It means praising God’s character. King David wrote:
“Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!”
Psalm 34:3
In Bible times, names had great significance, often revealing a person’s attributes. In modern times, we may not consider what a name means when we choose it for our newborn. Do you know what your name means?
In one Bible study I attended, one of the members gave each of us a gift of a bookmark with our name and its meaning on it. My name is pretty unusual, but she discovered that Sharla is a variant of Charla, which means warrior. I’m not sure I would ever describe myself as a warrior!
The Names of God Found in Scripture
In Middle Eastern culture, names are chosen according to the character traits that parents would like to see develop in their offspring. And in the Bible, God revealed His attributes through different names. I’m not sure that warrior really fits my personality, but God’s names definitely do tell us about His character. Michael Youssef in his book, Empowered by Praise, wrote:
“The names of God as revealed in Scripture, are not a human invention. They are the way God has chosen to reveal His character to us. The names of God are a composite of God’s revelation of His nature, His identity, His sovereignty, and His desires.”
God deliberately made Himself known by specific names in Scripture. When I worship Him using these names, I begin to grasp His true nature. This kind of praise allows me to know Him as He wants to be known. Amazing!
Praising God by Name
Let me give you an example of what this might look like with a few of God’s names. I’ve listed the name, the meaning, a verse of Scripture where the name is used. (I have included a link to an interlinear version of the Bible where you can see the Hebrew name). Then I’ve written a short prayer of praise using that particular name of God.
Elohim “Mighty God, Creator” Genesis 1:1
Elohim, Almighty God, I praise You for Your great might and power! You alone are the maker of the universe. Your creativity knows no bounds. Because You have created all things, I see Your beauty in everything I around me.
El Roi “The God Who Sees Me” Genesis 16:13-14
El Roi, You are the God who sees. You see everything and nothing escapes Your gaze. Because You are great, and I am small, I could easily be overlooked. Yet You see me, you notice me. You see each difficulty. You notice every heartache. Because you make note of every tear that falls, I am comforted.
El Shaddai “God Almighty” Genesis 17:1-2
El Shaddai, You are God Almighty. Nothing is too hard for You. Moving a mountain is just as easy as feeding a sparrow. Right now, some things in my life appear impossible, but because of Your might and power, I know that everything will work out. I praise You, El Shaddai
Yahweh Yireh “The Lord Will Provide” Genesis 22:13-14
Yahweh Yireh, You are the great Provider. Help me remember that fact when I start to wonder about finances or when I can’t see how difficulties in my life can be resolved. You own everything in the world, so You can easily give me everything I need. Help me to trust in Your provision.
When you read the Scripture associated with each name in context, you will notice that particular characteristic of God had significant meaning for the Bible character at that point of time. We may also find a certain name for God more meaningful in different situations of life. When I’m driving through a breath-taking mountain pass, I may naturally want to praise Elohim, the God of creation. When I face a financial crisis, I may want to call out to Yahweh Yireh–the Great Provider. And I can go to El Roi, the God who sees me, when I feel insignificant and unnoticed.
A Resource to Help You Praise God by Name
To help you adopt the habit of praising God by name, I have put together a list of eighteen names of God found in Scripture. I’ve included the name, its meaning, and a key Scripture reference where the name is used.
Next Step: Click here to get this helpful resource! May your awareness of God grow as you praise Him by name.