What's In a Name?

Awww! First, there's the excitement that a new little one is on the way! This is followed by the stress/agony/challenge of determining what to name the lil fella. Hmmm, should he be a junior to keep the family name lineage going?

Should he be named after my favorite grade school teacher?

Shall we choose a traditional name - or one that has ethnic ties?

Should we create one that is unique, like a blend of the parents?

Should he have a Biblical name?

Shall it easily translate to a nickname for ease of speak?

Or should we wait to see what perfect name "hits us" once we look into his eyes? 

Decisions, decisions!

Well, as we all know, there's no right or wrong answer to these questions. However, what we do know is that a name does matter in the grand scheme of things - particularly if the name has some special meaning. There's an adage that "kids can be cruel" - particularly so if your kid has a unique, hard to pronounce or name that rhymes. And this same cruelty sometimes shows up as bias in adulthood. 

So, as parents, we should be mindful of what we name our children. Picking out a name for your baby is special. It feels sacred.

But what's more important than their name, is what we call our children and how we speak life to them!  There is power in our words that will shape how our children view themselves and the world around them.

Every single child is a reward and a blessing from God. Whether they're bringing parents pride and joy, or whether they are teaching us how to be more patient and forgiving, children are a gift from God and a source for the growth of His Kingdom here on Earth!

The Bible says

"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born I set you apart" Jeremiah 1:5. 

God gave us the blessing; it's up to us what we do with it. Speak to your kids with love and understanding. Uplift and encourage them. Love and support them. Pray for them and over them. Teach them and train them up. Develop Godly character in them. Remind them that they are children of the Most High. Call them by their name!

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