Names.
We all have one. We may have even been called a few. Our names are chosen upon our birth and cling to us for the rest of our days.
A recent conversation about names has had me reflecting on their importance.
“A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold.” (Proverbs 22:1, NASB)
A google search of baby names results in a million choices. Yet only when a first and last name become joined together do they then represent the person. Therefore, names carry great weight – whether good or bad.
A name will speak volumes. Your character makes the name. It is not the name which makes the character. Desire to develop good and godly character.
A name can inspire others. Paul in writing to the church in Corinth says, “I am so glad that you always keep me in your thoughts and that you are following the teachings I passed on to you” (1 Corinthians 11:1, NLT). Paul was confident he had been a good example to them and had passed on God’s Word correctly. May we be an example others can follow.
What are you known for? It’s a good question to reflect on every now and then.
We tend to put weight on gender and names as well. Some even think this is the way to carry on the family name or leave a legacy.
When I was pregnant with my two children, I had no preference to a boy or a girl. No thought was given to carrying on the family name. My only desire was for healthy children who would come to know and love the name of the Lord.
“I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.”
(3 John 4, NASB)
Eugene Peterson, in writing The Message, worded it this way:
“Nothing could make me happier than getting reports that my children continue diligently in the way of Truth!”
In reading these Scriptures recently, this is the legacy I desire to be left behind. It’s not the legacy of a family name, it’s not in successful careers or achievements.
It is a legacy of loving Jesus.
Of continuing diligently in the way of Truth.
His is the only Name that matters.
Last week Susan Sikes shared a story of her sister, dad, and steer, which made for such a good analogy. May we know our Shepherd’s voice so well that we are just like that steer ”“ resistant and unyielding to any other voice. Read her post “How to Recognize the Shepherd’s Voice” HERE.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Brian Mann on Unsplash
Such a good post on the significance of names. My daughter always puts so much thought and effort into picking names for her children. Thanks for the party.
We did too as we wanted our children’s name to be meaningful. So glad to have you join in!
I love that verse, and that is my deepest desire and hope for my children as well.
It’s amazing how this desire only deepens as the years go on, and our families grow 🙂 May the Lord keep His hand on our families.
Joanne, such beautiful words and thoughts on the significance of names, and even more on character. I’m so thankful for God’s redemptive power as He refines our character to be more like Jesus!
I am so grateful He continues to refine our character over the course of our lives. He is most patient and tender as He does so, knowing we are but broken people.
Joanne, it always makes my heart sing when I witness or hear of my children reflecting a deep love and walk with Jesus.
May your heart always sing, Debbie!
Loving Jesus and walking diligently in Truth is the greatest legacy of all, Joanne!
I can’t think of any greater joy. And the peace that comes with being certain of our children’s spiritual status… priceless!
Such a wonderful thought, Michele. The peace is as great as the joy!
This is so good, Joanne. I’ve always loved and prayed 3 John 4. That’s the number one thing I want for my kids and grandkids.
For sure. â¤ï¸
I have always loved the meaning of names Joanne, especially when we read in the Word that they are important to God & mean a great deal!
I’m with Eugene Peteson!
God bless you sweet friend, Jennifer
“What are you known for? It’s a good question to reflect on every now and then.“
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. Proverbs 22:1 is partly the reason 🌸
I’m wondering if we don’t think on it often enough. I’ve been pondering the differences, and similarities, between names, titles, positions, and our character in thinking on what we are known for. Proverbs 22:1 has been thought provoking. Blessings!
That’s a wonderful legacy point you have shared, Joanne. A legacy of loving Jesus well, above all else.
Joanne, when I was young it was about my career but as I came to know Jesus, to be known as His daughter who loves Him is my legacy.
Jesus, the only name that matters. Truth.
This is so good. Names, legacy, trusting God with our kids, and hope all in one encouraging read. Thank you!
So enjoyed this post Ms. Joanne. Stirred my soul ma’am.
It’s funny how even worldly people have a desire to leave something for people to remember them by, some kind of legacy. People leave scholarships in their name, have buildings and other monuments named or created in their honor, or in some other way leave a mark. Even those imprisoned often leave writings on the walls of their cells. But, like you, the legacy I want to leave is to represent His name well. Thanks for the reminder of just how important that is.
I desire to leave that same kind of legacy, Joanne. 🙂