WHAT'S IN A NAME

It takes me a long long time to find the suitable name for our children. Of course my husband and I have to agree, but the main deciding factor is the meaning. It must have a strong Christian meaning behind it, with great integrity and strength and character. This cuts down our list quite a bit. The list of useable Christian names are short.

The reason why we do this is because Proverbs 22:1 says 'A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.'

We chose our son's name Israel because it means

• God rules
• God commands
• God orders
• God judges
• Triumphant with God
• Who prevails with God
• Be strong
• Have authority over

When I speak his name I am speaking the meaning.

As a prophetic name, Israel (originally Jacob) means to prevail and succeeded. He had contended for his birthright and succeeded (Genesis 25:29-34) (Genesis 27). He had contended with Laban (the father of his bride) and succeeded (Genesis 28:10). He had contended with man and succeeded. Now he contends with God and fails. Therefore his name was changed from Jacob to Israel, 'God Commands' to teach him he greatly needed a lesson of dependance on God.

So here is to a 6 month journey in finding the right name for our baby!