Amazing Grace : 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions

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January 30 TAKE THE NAME OF JESUS WITH YOU Lydia Baxter, 1809–1874 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3:17) “What’s in a name?” This was the probing question asked by Romeo in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. Christians have long realized that the whispered name “Jesus” can bring comfort and cheer to someone suffering or bereaved, and it can bring joyful hope to the fearful or depressed heart. The writer of this hymn text knew well the meaning of that special name “Jesus”. Although Lydia Baxter was a bed-ridden invalid much of her life, she remained continually cheerful and patient. “I have a very special armor,” she would tell her friends. “I have the name of Jesus. When the tempter tries to make me blue or despondent, I mention the name of Jesus, and he can’t get through to me anymore.” “Take the Name of Jesus With You” was written by Mrs. Baxter on her sick bed just four years before her death in 1874 at the age of 65. Throughout her lifetime she was known as an avid student of the Bible who loved to discuss the significance of scriptural names with her friends. She would inform them that Samuel means “asked of God,” Hannah—“grace,” Sarah—“princess,” and Naomi—“pleasantness.” But the name that meant everything to Lydia Baxter was the name “Jesus.” This hymn was used often during the Moody-Sankey evangelistic campaigns in the latter part of the 19th century. These words are still a comforting reminder of the peace and joy that result as we carry His precious Name throughout this life, and of the “joy of heav’n” that awaits us. Take the name of Jesus with you, child of sorrow and of woe; it will joy and comfort give you—Take it, then, where’er you go. Take the name of Jesus ever, as a shield from ev’ry snare; if temptations round you gather, breathe that holy name in prayer. O the precious name of Jesus! How it thrills our souls with joy, when His loving arms receive us and His songs our tongues employ! At the name of Jesus bowing, falling prostrate at His feet, King of kings in heav’n we’ll crown Him when our journey is complete. Chorus: Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heaven. For Today: Proverbs 18:10; John 1:12; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9, 10 Breathe the name of Jesus often as you go about your daily tasks, letting Him share each concern or blessing that comes your way. Carry this musical reminder with you for today and the days ahead— Kenneth W. Osbeck, Amazing Grace : 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications, 1990). 39.

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