ODM Daily Inspirational Devotional Messages Bible Verse and Prayers ODM
DCLM Daily Manna – His Name Jesus
Monday, August 17, 2026
KEY VERSE
“And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
Bible Reading:
Matthew 1:18-25 (KJV)
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
MESSAGE
In Scripture, names aren’t just labels— they are declarations of identity, destiny, and divine calling. In several cases, God revealed His plans by changing someone’s name: Abram became Abraham, Sarai became Sarah, Jacob became Israel, and Simon became Peter. What we are called often reflects what we are becoming in God’s hands.
The angel that announced the birth of Christ declared, “…and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins”, denoting His mission on earth. Matthew’s account of the event begins and ends with the miraculous – the conception of the Virgin Mary, the angelic visitation, and the disposition of Joseph. All these point to the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ. It is this colossal event that explains Paul’s assertive thought in his epistle to the Colossians, “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”.
It should be noted here that even though we don’t have to pry into the mysteries of Christ’s incarnation, that event was a necessary condition for the redemption of humanity. Notice also that God chose to use a devout virgin who was espoused to Joseph, a religious, good man. It was therefore easy for God’s angel to convince them and extract compliance with the divine plan. The whole of these events accorded with prophecies given much earlier than the time. The birth of Jesus is the vehicle of joy into troubled, sin-sick and suffering hearts. His Name portends His mission, ministry and mandate. He is Emmanuel (God with us), and Jesus (Saviour). A few decades later, Peter would affirmatively declare before the Sanhedrin that “…There is none other Name under heaven given amongst men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The Jewish world had long awaited the Messiah with bated breath but, and sadly so, the greater part of the population could not come to terms with the God-incarnate Saviour cradled in the manger surrounded with bleating sheep. That could not stop God’s redemptive plan.
Whatever you make of this narrative, it must not be lost on you that Jesus came to save humankind from the grip of sin and its consequences. This also goes with freedom from demonic manipulations and satanic oppression, sickness and destiny-destruction. The question is, has the purpose of Christ’s incarnation been fulfilled in your life? If not, why not?
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
It cost heaven so much to procure our salvation
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 31-34
COMMENTARY
1. The Significance of the Name Jesus – Names in Scripture carry deep meaning. The name “Jesus” (Yeshua in Hebrew) means “God saves.” It declares His mission: to save His people from their sins. His name is not just a label but a revelation of His purpose—to rescue humanity from the power and penalty of sin.
2. The Incarnation: God With Us – Matthew emphasizes that Jesus is Emmanuel, “God with us.” This is the mystery of the incarnation—God taking on human flesh to dwell among us. This was not a mere appearance but a real, physical entry into our world to accomplish our salvation.
3. The Obedience of Joseph and Mary – The devotional highlights the willing obedience of Joseph and Mary. They were devout and righteous, making them receptive to God’s plan. Their compliance was essential to the fulfillment of prophecy and the redemption of humanity. God still seeks willing vessels to accomplish His purposes.
4. The Cost of Salvation – The Thought for the Day declares: “It cost heaven so much to procure our salvation.” This is a sobering reminder that salvation was not cheap. The incarnation, the suffering, and the death of Christ were the ultimate cost. We must never treat salvation lightly.
5. The DCLM Ministry’s Focus on the Name of Jesus – The Deeper Christian Life Ministry emphasizes the power and authority in the name of Jesus. Pastor Kumuyi teaches that salvation, deliverance, and healing come through His name. The Daily Manna devotional calls readers to honor and trust in the name of Jesus.
About DCLM and Daily Manna
The Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) was founded in 1973 by Pastor Dr. W.F. Kumuyi. From a small Bible study of 15 students in Lagos, it has grown into a global ministry with churches across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. The ministry emphasizes holiness, prayer, Bible study, and faith in the name of Jesus.
DCLM Daily Manna is a daily devotional written by Pastor Kumuyi. Each edition provides Scripture reading, exposition, and practical application to guide believers in their daily walk with God. The devotional consistently calls readers to trust in the saving name of Jesus.
Prayer Reflection
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge Your name as the only name given for salvation. Thank You for coming to save me from my sins. I embrace You as my Saviour and Lord. Let the purpose of Your incarnation be fully fulfilled in my life—save me, deliver me, and set me free. In Your precious name. Amen.
