Hymn of the Week: Take the Name of Jesus With You (Precious Name)

9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11)

It is interesting and edifying to observe what the Bible says about the name of Jesus. Focusing on the fact that it should not be taken in vain, or blasphemed, is easy to do. It is also good to note that the name of Jesus will one day be exalted above every other name, as the verses above remind us.

But it is also a blessing to know that Jesus' name is the precious and sweet "hope of earth and joy of heaven." It does comfort us, wherever we go, to know that He is with us. It does remind us in times of temptation that we can rely on Him. It does thrill our soul and give us reason to sing. And, yes, we will bow at His feet when we hear His name.

This hymn's words were written by Lydia O. Baxter in 1870, and regardless of whether you know the title as "Take the Name of Jesus With You" or "Precious Name," I hope it comforts and encourages you to read these words again.

Take the Name of Jesus With You (Precious Name)

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.

Refrain

Precious Name, O how sweet!
Hope of earth and joy of Heav’n.
Precious Name, O how sweet!
Hope of earth and joy of Heav’n.

Take the Name of Jesus ever,
As a shield from every snare;
If temptations round you gather,
Breathe that holy Name in prayer.

Refrain

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!

Refrain

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.

Refrain