What does "for Your own sake" reveal about God's character and priorities?

The Setting: Daniel 9:19

“O Lord, listen and act! Do not delay, for Your own sake, O my God, because Your city and Your people are called by Your name.”

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Why Daniel Uses the Phrase

• Israel is in exile for persistent sin (Daniel 9:1–14).

• Daniel confesses on behalf of the nation (vv. 15–18).

• He grounds his plea not in Israel’s worthiness but in God’s honor: “for Your own sake.”

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What “for Your own sake” Reveals About God

• God prizes His glory.

– He will not share it with another (Isaiah 42:8).

– Every act of mercy ultimately showcases His greatness (Psalm 115:1).

• God’s name and reputation matter to Him.

– His people “are called by Your name,” so their condition reflects on Him (Ezekiel 36:22–23).

– He guards His reputation among the nations (Exodus 32:11–14).

• God is covenant-faithful.

– He bound Himself to Abraham’s line (Genesis 17:7).

– Acting “for His own sake” means keeping promises He freely made (Nehemiah 9:31).

• God’s mercy flows from His character, not our merit.

– “I blot out your transgressions for My own sake” (Isaiah 43:25).

– Grace magnifies Him, not us (Ephesians 2:8–9).

• God desires a people who display His holiness.

– Restoring Jerusalem would re-establish worship (Daniel 9:17).

– His priority is a witness that reflects Him accurately (1 Peter 2:9).

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Practical Takeaways

• Pray God-centered prayers.

– Anchor requests in His glory, not personal comfort.

– Expect His answer to advance His name.

• Rest in His reliability.

– If He acts for His own sake, He cannot fail; His reputation is on the line.

• Pursue holiness.

– Because we bear His name (Acts 11:26), our conduct should honor Him (Philippians 1:27).

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Other Passages Echoing the Truth

• 1 Samuel 12:22 — “The LORD will not abandon His people, for His great name’s sake.”

• Psalm 79:9 — “Help us… deliver us and atone for our sins, for Your name’s sake.”

• Ezekiel 20:9 — “I acted for My name’s sake, that it should not be profaned.”

• John 12:28 — “Father, glorify Your name.”