No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations. —
Genesis 17:5
As part of the process of establishing a covenant of multiplication with Abram, God changed his name to Abraham. The name Abram meant ‘exalted father.’ Without any negative connotation, it must have sounded good enough. However God wanted to emphasize a point with the name Abraham, which meant ‘father of a multitude’ or ‘father of many nations.’ The name was to be a constant reminder of God’s promise. In times of doubt, it was to provide the strength to hold on and persist in faith. For that purpose, Abram was not going to be enough.Genesis 17:5
Names are meaningful and purposeful. How do we select names for our children, businesses, projects or organisations? Do we go for names that connote positive attributes like faith, hope and strength? Do we consider every name as a declaration or prophecy? Or do we just choose what rhymes, what is fashionable or the name of a parent or dead relative whose character we cannot vouch for?
There is something in a name. Whenever a name is mentioned we are affirming the meaning behind it. The name “Jesus” from the Hebrew name ‘Yeshua’ means ‘to deliver or rescue.’ A Yoruba called “Olufemi” is constantly declaring that “God loves me.” When we call someone Harriet, we are affirming her as ‘ruler of the home.’ The Ghanaian name ‘Nhyira’ is a reminder that the bearer carries a ‘Blessing.’ May this understanding guide your choices and decisions henceforth. Commit to giving meaningful names to the things God blesses you with. Never accept a nickname that connotes defeat or suffering. You’re the blessed of the Lord.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to constantly affirm and declare who I am in Christ.Scripture Reading:
Genesis 17:1-9
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