"'I have called you by your name, friend'"

I recently signed up at a new fitness club, and I was totally surprised that they called each member by name. At first I thought they must've known each other personally, but then they greeted me, too. "Hi, Déborah, glad you're here!" How did they already know who I was? They were evidently prepared for me coming and wanted to show me that they valued me. I was impressed and immediately felt comfortable.

friend, when we're called by name, we feel seen, and that has nothing to do with whether we've done something great or if we're rich, popular, intelligent, funny, or particularly charming. Hearing our name spoken makes us feel good.

If a person can trigger that sense of belonging in you, friend, how amazing is it that God says to you, "'I have called you by your name'"? (Isaiah 43:1, NKJV)  It's unbelievable but true. When I think about it, it sparks more than just a sensation of feeling good! All different emotions start to converge within me—joy, respect, amazement, disbelief even, and possibly the fear that I may not be enough.

If you can relate, friend, be assured—you are enough in God's eyes! He knew we'd ask questions like, "God, You are calling me? What do I have to do in return?" So He included an important addition to the previous verse: "'You are Mine.'" (Isaiah 43:1, NKJV) He's saying we don't have to "do" anything or prove anything to Him. We belong just as we are.

friend, you have the assurance today that God is everywhere, all around you, and that He made you exactly as you are for His glory! Listen to Him as He says, "You belong to Me. You belong, and you are enough!" God knows your name…that's how much He values you.

You are a miracle!