What’s in a Name?

The small card in the picture above has been in my possession for many, many years. It simply says my name, Elizabeth (even though my name is spelled with an “s” and not a “z”), and then the meaning of my name: Consecrated to God. I have treasured and kept it for so long, because it’s served as a reminder of the meaning that my name carries in my life. My parents didn’t just pick a name out of a hat when they discovered that I was a girl. No, they searched for a name that would hold great significance, and, as it turns out, it has! All my life, my name has been a reminder that I am consecrated to Him, set apart for His purposes. It’s almost as if every time someone speaks my name, they are also speaking the purpose of God over me, as well.

Maybe you’ve been called some less-than-encouraging names in the past. Perhaps some monikers or labels have been spoken over you that have seemingly branded you in their shame. Did a parent call you useless? Has a boyfriend or girlfriend called you ugly or unworthy? Did peers talk about how stupid you are? These names, much like our given names, can stay with us long after their original distribution. They can seem so real and raw to us, that we are surprised they aren’t stamped across our forehead for all the world to see.

If you can relate to what I described above, I’ve got great, hopefully freeing news for you today. The only name that truly matters is the name that God has called you. What name has God called you? Simple. He has called you His (Psalm 95:7). He has called You chosen (1 Peter 2:9). He has called You loved (John 3:16). What earthly name can compare when we realize that the Maker of the universe has called us His children?

Reclaim your name today. Confess to God those names that have haunted you, tormenting you with their accusations, and accept God’s names for you, instead. You’ll find that the names people will try to throw at you pale in comparison when you are secure in the title that the Almighty God has given you – His beloved, chosen child.