The final part of the Abram/Abraham story that I want to discuss, Abram and Sarai’s name change. It’s in the scripture below…
What’s more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram. Instead, you will be called Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations. Genesis 17:5
And
Then God said to Abraham, “Regarding Sarai, your wife- her name will no longer be Sarai. From now on her name will be Sarah.” Genesis 17:15
When they had their redeeming moment with God, he not only confirmed His intentions with them, but also changed what they would be called. How beautiful is that? He didn’t even refer to their pre-redeemed selves any longer. What a beautiful reflection of the coming redemption we would all have access to through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
All throughout scripture, we see that names are very important to God. He closed Zechariah’s mouth during Elizabeth’s entire pregnancy, until it was time for the baby to be named. God had told he and Elizabeth the name the baby would be given, and at the right time, Zechariah opened his mouth and spoke, “His name is John.” God changed Saul’s name to Paul after he had a redemptive moment. God Himself, is given many beautiful names in scripture, each one affirming another part of His nature. Names are important.
When we find ourselves realigning our lives and allowing the redemptive power of Christ to flow through us, we may just find ourselves with a new name.
Names are a way of saying, “This is who you are to Me.”
My name means: Consecrated to God or God is my oath. I live out this name daily. I think about it all the time. In fact, right this very moment I’m in a season of consecration. God spoke to me about laying some specific things down for the year, and as I did so, He spoke to me that I was consecrating myself. What a lovely thought. It drives me to hold onto my word and gives me motivation to live out what He’s asking of me.
God also gave me a new name when I really gave my life over to Him as a young adult. That name was, Mama. I’ve loved living out that name. What a gift.
What’s in a name? A lot.
Today would be a good day to research your name and find out what it means. If you already know, then it’s a great time to ask God to help you live up to your name. Your parents may have seemingly given you the name you have, but I think God has a hand in it every time.
What’s in a name? Often, you will see people do live up to them, for good or bad. When we are walking with Jesus, we live up to the good insinuations of our name. When we are living for the world, the opposite is true. I’ve seen it time and time again. I am always looking up the meaning of a person’s name when I pray for them. It gives real insight.
So, take a minute, look up your name and pray for God to help you live up to it. Determine to set your heart in that direction. You may be surprised what happens. And if you’re like I was years ago and feel so changed that you desire a new name, then ask for one. Pray and ask for a new name, then spend your life living up to it. It’s worth it.
Therefore, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11
365 Days in the Presence 