During the Christmas Eve service at Calvary Chapel Merritt Island, one of the songs that was featured was the song Names by Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music. And while it’s not what anyone would consider to be a typical Christmas song, there were several elements within it that declared the truths of the Christmas message, and also the wonder of God the Son coming down into our midst and taking on flesh and bone in order to dwell among us (Immanuel). In the midst of celebrating Christ’s birth, this song reminding me of the richness of God’s names and the power they hold in our lives.
The Power of God’s Names
Names is more than just a song; it is a declaration of who God is, His visible and invisible attributes that each of His names describes. The names that God takes for Himself and those that others give Him are scattered throughout the Scriptures, often as different elements and attributes of God are revealed to people. Each name of God reveals a deep aspect of His character, His promises, and His relationship with us. The lyrics powerfully articulate these truths:
You are the medicine
The only cure for everything I feel within
Redeeming what was lost and all that could have been
Oh, this is a healing kind of love.
In these words, we see Jehovah Rapha—the Lord who heals. The song continues to describe God as our truest friend, our comfort, and our Prince of Peace. These attributes are not just poetic descriptions; they are reflections of His very essence.
A Song of Worship and Surrender
As the congregation at Calvary Chapel Merritt Island worshiped together, I was struck by how the song’s chorus so beautifully aligns with Isaiah 9:6:
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
Immanuel, God with us, You’re here with me
Wonderful Counselor
The government is resting on Your shoulders.
These names were prophesied about Jesus long before His birth, affirming His divine nature and eternal reign. Singing them aloud became a moment of surrender, a reminder that no matter the uncertainties of life, His Name is above all.
The Names of God: A Deeper Understanding
When the song was was being sung in the church, each of the names of God was displayed on the screen, which really added to the depth and intimacy of the worship experience:
- El Shaddai – Lord God Almighty
- El Elyon – The Most High God
- Adonai – Lord, Master
- Yahweh – Lord, Jehovah
- Jehovah Nissi – The Lord My Banner
- Jehovah-Raah – The Lord My Shepherd
- Jehovah Rapha – The Lord That Heals
- Jehovah Shammah – The Lord Is There
- Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness
- Jehovah Mekoddishkem – The Lord Who Sanctifies You
- El Olam – The Everlasting God
- Elohim – God
- Qanna – Jealous
- Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide
- Jehovah Shalom – The Lord Is Peace
- Jehovah Sabaoth – The Lord of Hosts
Each of these names is a promise, a truth we can hold onto in every season of life. Whether we need healing, provision, peace, or righteousness, God’s names declare His unchanging nature and faithfulness.
A Call to Worship
Hearing Names during the Christmas season was a powerful reminder that Jesus is Immanuel—God with us. As we reflect on His names, may we stand in awe of who He is and trust in His sovereignty.
I invite you to listen to this incredible song and meditate on the names of God. Let it be a moment of worship, reflection, and renewed faith in the One who holds all things together.