Do you know the meaning of your first name? Do you find that it fits aspects of who you are?
Some people are named because of characteristics their parents want their children to embody. Others receive a name based on how it sounds attached to the last name, the popularity of the name, or sentimental value. Our names are part of our identification.
The names of God allow us to gain an understanding of who he is. They identify his character, encompass his essence, give proof to his character, and indicate his distinction from us. Let’s look at a few aspects of God shown by his name:
God’s name heralds his self-sufficiency, eternal existence, sovereignty, and constancy. “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you’” (Exodus 3:14 NIV, letter Y for Yahweh in Follow and Lead). The Hebrew people held God’s name as sacred to the point of not wanting to risk defaming it. Because of that, it was written as YHWH (as LORD in many Bible translations) and it was spoken as Adonai, meaning Lord.
God’s name signifies his strength and power to provide spiritual safety and peace for those who are found in him. “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe” (Proverbs 18:10 ESV).
The God of the universe identifies himself as deserving our full worship: “Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Exodus 34:14 NIV, letter J for Jealous in Follow and Lead).
The name of God is holy and to be revered. The third commandment given to the Israelites reads, “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain” (Exodus 20:7 ESV). In ancient Israel, to affirm the truth of a statement oaths were taken using God’s name. Swearing by a false statement rendered a misrepresentation of God’s character.
The name of God, and what it represents, is highlighted when our actions oppose him. He exposes our sin with who he is – in justice, goodness, and mercy. By his love he draws us to himself so we can humble ourselves, call on his name, and see his glory.
May we proclaim, “No one is like you, LORD; you are great and your name is mighty in power” (Jeremiah 10:6 NIV, letter R for Renowned in Follow and Lead).
If you want to focus on God’s character, Follow and Lead can get you started!