When Daniel was deported to Babylon,
The pagan empire tried to rename him
“Belteshazzar”—“Lady protect the King”—
A reference to the pagan goddess.

But the voice of scripture never calls him such.
He is always “Daniel” or “Daniel (called Belteshazzar)”.

There is a battle—which empire gets to name the man of God?

The Word makes it clear.
The Lord God alone names His servants.
He is Daniel (“God is my judge”).

There is a battle for your name too.
The kingdom of this world might dub you with dishonor,
But only the One who made you can name you.
Only the One who sees into your deepest essence
Can call you who you are.

I bless you, child of God,
To hear Him call you by name.

Royal priest.
Co-heir with Christ.
Beloved .
Forever, Beloved.