What’s in a Name?

“What’s in a name? Asked Shakespeare’s lovesick Juliet, and though I would agree with her that, “…a rose by any other name would smell as sweet…” I believe there is something in a name. There is something interesting, something work discovering in your name.

Throughout the Bible are countless instances revealing God’s interest in individuals and in their names. So deep was this interest, He sometimes changed names in order to better work out His plan in their lives. He’s also interested in you. I believe God has made you a special creation. He has a unique life for you. He wants you to live up to the potential He has placed within you. He wants you to live up to your name.

Every name has a meaning drawn from the language of its origin. Sometimes that meaning is obscured because of changes in the culture or in the customs. There is more to a name than its literal meaning, however. Each name can and does suggest a character quality, a goal for which to strive. I have a book that lists the meaning of names. The name Beverly, for example, means “by the beaver dam.” Since beavers are known for their industry, Beverly’s character quality is industrious. You are welcome to look up the literal meaning of your name, suggested lifetime Bible verse and suggested character quality or Godly characteristic.

At Lord of Life we are encouraging worshippers to wear nametags. We want people to get to know your name. There is something special about being called by name. So we ask each of you to make the effort to put a name to the face and make a relationship with them as well. Whenever you see the name tag table, put your name on and rejoice in the name that you have been give. Your name is unique and is as important as you are. May we let God show us how to live up to it.

Go with God,

Pastor Qualley