Called by NAME

Scripture: Isaiah 43:1 — “But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine."

Have you ever felt invisible? Maybe you’ve been overlooked at work, in your family, or even in ministry. Perhaps your contributions, your wisdom, or even your very presence seem unnoticed. At times, life may have whispered lies: “You’re too late. You’re too ordinary. You’re not enough.”

God speaks a different truth. In Isaiah 43:1, He says, “I have called you by name; you are mine.”

Take a moment and let that sink in. God—not just any God, but the Creator of the universe, the One who formed you, shaped you, and breathed life into you—calls YOU by name. Not a general, impersonal call. Not a vague invitation. Lashay (insert your name). Your essence. Your story. He knows you. He sees you. He claims you.

There’s something profoundly comforting about being named. A name is personal; it’s intimate. Your name is tied to your identity, your heritage, and your purpose. When God calls your name, He’s reminding you of who YOU truly are in Him. You are not defined by your past mistakes, the seasons you feel behind in, or the opinions of the world. You are defined by the One who created you with intention and love.

This verse also reminds us that calling by name comes with ownership. “You are mine.” Not in a controlling way, but in a protective, redemptive way. God claims you, and nothing can separate you from Him. Your value is not determined by what you accomplish, how the world sees you, or the roles you fill. Your value is inherent because YOU belong to God.

For women stepping into the later seasons of life, this truth is especially powerful. Perhaps you feel you’ve been overlooked for years, that your dreams are behind schedule, or that your purpose is unfinished. Isaiah 43:1 is God’s whisper into your soul: “Do not fear. I am still calling you. I still see you. You are still mine.” God’s calling does not expire with age or circumstance. Your season of relevance, impact, and divine assignment is alive, and He has you exactly where you need to be.

So how do we live in the reality of being called by name? First, we silence the lies: the comparison, the self-doubt, the “not enough” voice. Next, we step forward in faith, trusting that God’s ownership over us is good, protective, and empowering. And finally, we embrace the intimacy of His knowledge—allowing Him to guide our steps, strengthen our hearts, and affirm our identity daily.

Today, reflect on your name. Say it aloud. Imagine God speaking it. Hear Him whisper: “I have called you, Lashay. You are mine.” Let this truth seep into every part of your soul. Let it restore your confidence, heal your fear, and fuel your courage. You are seen. You are chosen. You are God’s.

Reflection Questions:

1. When have you felt invisible or overlooked, and how does God’s promise in Isaiah 43:1 bring reassurance?

2. What fears or doubts can you release today knowing that God calls you by name?

3. How can you step into your God-given identity this week, confident that you are His?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for calling me by name. Thank You for seeing me, knowing me, and claiming me as Yours. Help me to release fear and live fully in the truth that I am Yours. Guide me to walk confidently in my identity, trusting that You have a plan and purpose for me in every season. Amen.

Affirmation: “I am seen. I am known. I am called by name. I belong to God.”

Your Turn, Beautiful Friend:

If this spoke to your heart today… Share in the comments a fear that you are ready to release.

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