Do you ever think much about names? We humans like to name things. Maybe it’s because that was the first job God ever gave us way back in the garden of Eden. Adam first named his wife Eve, and then God gave them the task of naming all the animals. In the Bible names are a big deal. God is called by a lot of different names, each reflecting a different one of His attributes.
When I had each of my children I took special care to pick out their names. Each of their names has a specific meaning that I hoped and prayed they would grow into. I also found verses that went along with the meaning of their names. I really believe though, that God Himself names each one of us. I have met many people who have, (mostly unknowingly) lived into the meaning of their names, whether their parents had chosen their name for its meaning or just because they liked it.
Have you ever looked up what your name means? My full name is Christy, named after the character in Catherine Marshall’s book of the same name. Oddly enough, I was about 21 before I actually read the book. The strange thing is that I found myself to be quite similar to the Christy of the book.
As I was reading my Bible one day, I came across the name “Ebenezer.” The only Ebenezer I have ever heard of bore the last name Scrooge. It was the footnote in my Bible, however, that really got me thinking. It said that the name “Ebenezer,” means ‘stone of help.’ It made me wonder about Dickens. Did he know the meaning behind the name he dubbed his infamous character? I like to think that as the author, with the redemptive end for Scrooge in mind, he did know the meaning. By the end of his Christmas Carol, Ebenezer was most definitely living into his name, providing help for many in his town.
I believe that God creates each of us with a special plan in mind. Sometimes part of His plan is revealed quite clearly in our name. Even if your name has not been something that you have been especially fond of in your life, I would encourage you to talk to God about it. Ask Him to reveal His meaning for your name to you. He may even want to reveal a new name to you, or a new meaning for your name. No matter what the meaning for your name, I pray that you come to realize more deeply that God created you unique, with a special purpose that He will reveal more and more the closer you walk with Him.
Merry Christmas, and God bless us every one!
“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” Proverbs 22:1
“The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow.” Isaiah 62:2
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