Namesake

Wednesday, May 23, 2012


"A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold." Proverbs 22:1 (NASB)

Most of us have no choice as far as what our name is when we are born. As adults we may change it but for a couple of years, we're pretty much stuck with what we're given. 
The most challenging thing about being pregnant for me is not the ever changing pregnancy side-effect but naming my children. It takes us 9 months because we want them to have a great start in life and a name that has an amazing meaning. 
Names can be prophetic. I heard the story of a man whose name mean "lame" and his ancestors with the same name ended up with a condition who caused them to be lame. I have also heard of people whose names have beautiful meanings such as "healer" but they never really went by their real name until they realized how powerful it was.
What's the meaning of your name?
I disagree with those who thing that your name is not worth much nowadays. I choose to believe that the value of your name is attached to the intensity in which you live your life. If you intend to be a giver and a helper of people, your name takes on a great meaning. If you intensely live to criticize others, destroy reputations and spread lies every chance you can, your name will also be attached to a particular meaning. 
God's timeless Word tells us that a good name is to be desired more than great wealth. I know that once humans die, their wealth is transferred but not the meaning of their names. Think about the name Mother Teresa for example. She chose to live free from wealth but one thing that lives is the value of her name. She lived her life intensely to help others and that's what makes her name name a good one according to Proverbs 22:1. Here's The Message translation of the same verse:
'A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich; a gracious spirit is better than money in the bank." 
Today I want to remind you that with every tweet you send, with every Instagram photo of unsuspecting individuals and with every word that comes out of your mouth, you are building a reputation. Whether it is sterling or not, it's up to the content of your heart. 
Build a good name my friend. And pray for me so I can come up with a good one for my new baby girl. 
LifenotesEncouragement said...

The right name will come to you!
and yes a name matters...
congrats on the impending birth - may you have a safe delivery...happy landing!

Ak said...

I've been thinking a lot about the name I am making for myself. More in the sense of my reputation. I want to be one that people can see God in. I want to be joyful, sincere, and compassionate.

I'd say that a name is just a name...until the person given the name makes something of it. :)

Anonymous said...

I believe names mean a lot too! My parents gave me a name which, in their native tongue, means "we have arrived/settled." It was a testimony of how God had been good to them. As you reflect on the goodness of God, a name will come to you! I'll be praying :)