The desire for God's name and renown is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the call for believers to live in a way that glorifies God and makes His name known among the nations. This concept is deeply rooted in the understanding of God's holiness, sovereignty, and the ultimate purpose of creation and redemption.

Biblical Foundation

The desire for God's name to be exalted is evident from the earliest scriptures. In the book of Exodus, God reveals His name to Moses as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. This revelation underscores the importance of God's name as a representation of His character and authority.

The Psalms frequently express a longing for God's name to be praised. Psalm 72:19 declares, "Blessed be His glorious name forever; may all the earth be filled with His glory. Amen and amen." This verse captures the psalmist's desire for God's renown to spread throughout the earth, reflecting a vision of universal worship.

Isaiah 26:8 articulates the heart of this desire: "Yes, in the path of Your judgments, O LORD, we wait for You; Your name and renown are the desire of our souls." Here, the prophet Isaiah emphasizes that the longing for God's name and renown is not merely an external duty but an internal, soul-deep yearning.

Theological Significance

The desire for God's name and renown is intrinsically linked to the concept of God's glory. In the Bible, God's glory is often associated with His manifest presence and the revelation of His divine attributes. The call to glorify God is a call to reflect His character and to make His greatness known.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name" (Matthew 6:9). This petition underscores the importance of revering God's name and seeking its sanctification in the world. The Lord's Prayer encapsulates the believer's desire for God's name to be honored and His kingdom to advance.

The apostle Paul echoes this theme in his letters, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of the gospel. In Philippians 2:9-11, Paul writes, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage highlights the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire for His name to be exalted through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Practical Implications

For believers, desiring God's name and renown involves both personal devotion and public witness. It calls for a life of worship, obedience, and proclamation. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 charges Christians to "go and make disciples of all nations," reflecting the mandate to spread God's renown across the globe.

Moreover, the desire for God's name to be glorified influences ethical and moral decisions. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, Paul instructs, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." This comprehensive call to glorify God in all aspects of life underscores the believer's responsibility to reflect God's character in every action.

Conclusion

The desire for God's name and renown is a profound biblical theme that calls believers to live in a way that honors God and makes His greatness known. It is a call to worship, obedience, and mission, rooted in the understanding of God's holiness and the ultimate purpose of creation and redemption.