THE BLESSING OF A NAME (PART 2)

Title: THE BLESSING OF A NAME (PART 2)

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 62:2
Supporting Texts: Revelation 2:17, Genesis 32:28, 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

INTRODUCTION:
In the first part of this series, we explored how names carry identity, destiny, and blessings. Names often signify a shift in seasons or God’s promises to individuals. In this continuation, we delve deeper into how God uses names to transform destinies, confer blessings, and reveal His purpose. Understanding the power of a name helps believers embrace the fullness of God's plans for their lives.

1. A NEW NAME REFLECTS A NEW BEGINNING

a) Names Represent Transformation:
When God changes a name, it signifies a change in identity and purpose, like Jacob becoming Israel (Genesis 32:28).

b) It Marks a Fresh Start:
Isaiah 62:2 speaks of God giving a new name to His people, symbolising a new beginning and restored glory.

c) A New Name Erases Past Limitations:
Saul, the persecutor, became Paul, the apostle, highlighting God's ability to rewrite a person's story (Acts 13:9).

d) A New Name Brings Honour:
Revelation 2:17 promises a new name written on a white stone, reflecting eternal victory and God's approval.

Biblical Example: Abram became Abraham, signifying a shift from barrenness to fruitfulness and covenantal blessings (Genesis 17:5).

2. A NAME CAN BE A PRAYER OR DECLARATION

a) Names Can Prophesy God's Promises:
Jabez’s name meant "sorrow," but through prayer, he declared God's blessing over his life and changed his destiny (1 Chronicles 4:9-10).

b) Names Reflect Faith in God:
Hannah named her son Samuel, meaning "asked of God," as a testimony of answered prayer (1 Samuel 1:20).

c) Names Speak of God's Nature:
Names like Emmanuel ("God with us") and Jehovah Jireh ("The Lord will provide") reflect God's character and promises (Isaiah 7:14, Genesis 22:14).

d) Names Can Shape Identity:
Believers must declare their God-given names and identities in faith, rejecting any negative labels imposed by circumstances.

Biblical Example: Naomi, whose name means "pleasant," refused to accept the name Mara ("bitter") despite her trials (Ruth 1:20).

3. NAMES AND DIVINE RECOGNITION

a) God Knows Us by Name:
Isaiah 43:1 reminds us that God calls us by name, reflecting His intimate knowledge and care for us.

b) Names Establish Relationship with God:
God addressed individuals by name when calling them into purpose, like Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:4).

c) Names Represent Covenant:
God's promise to bless Abraham's descendants was tied to his name, establishing him as the father of many nations (Genesis 12:2).

d) Names of Believers in the Book of life
The Lamb’s Book of Life records the names of those who belong to God, signifying eternal salvation (Revelation 21:27).

Biblical Example: God specifically addressed Samuel by name, calling him into prophetic ministry as a child (1 Samuel 3:10).

4. A NAME CAN BE REDEEMED BY GOD

a) God Redeems Broken Names:
Even names with negative meanings can be transformed. Rahab, a harlot, became a symbol of faith and redemption (Joshua 6:25).

b) God Restores Lost Glory:
Names tarnished by sin or failure can be redeemed through repentance and faith in God’s grace.

c) Names Reflect God’s Grace:
Despite his betrayal, Peter's name still symbolised "rock," and he was restored to leadership in the early Church (John 21:15-17).

d) God Uses Names to Rewrite Destinies:
He can replace curses with blessings, as seen in the life of Jabez, who prayed for God’s intervention (1 Chronicles 4:10).

Biblical Example: Saul of Tarsus became Paul, the apostle, demonstrating God's power to redeem and repurpose names and lives (Acts 9:15).

5. HOW TO WALK IN THE BLESSINGS OF YOUR NAME

a) Embrace Your Identity in Christ:
Recognise that as a believer, you carry the name of Christ, which signifies salvation, authority, and eternal life (Acts 11:26).

b) Speak Life Over Your Name:
Proclaim blessings, favour, and God's promises over your life, aligning your identity with His Word.

c) Pray for God to Reveal Your Destiny:
Seek God in prayer to understand the purpose attached to your name and His calling over your life.

d) Reject Negative Labels:
Do not accept names or labels that contradict God’s plan for your life. Instead, declare what God says about you.

Biblical Example: David declared his victory over Goliath in the name of the Lord, aligning his actions with his God-given identity (1 Samuel 17:45).

CONCLUSION:
The blessing of a name is a testament to God’s power, promises, and purpose. When we understand the significance of names in Scripture, we can embrace our identity in Christ and walk boldly in the blessings attached to our names. Let us speak life over our names, declare God’s promises, and trust Him to fulfil His purpose in our lives.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, reveal the purpose and blessings attached to my name.

2. I declare that my name will carry favour and divine recognition.

3. Father, rewrite any negative history associated with my name.

4. I reject every label that does not align with Your Word.

5. Lord, let my name open doors of opportunity and blessing.

6. I declare that my name will be known for righteousness and legacy.

7. Father, establish my name in Your eternal covenant.

8. I proclaim that the name of Jesus will be glorified in my life.

9. Lord, restore any lost glory associated with my name.

10. I speak blessings and victory over my life and family in Jesus' name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Your name will be associated with divine favour and greatness.

2. Every curse attached to your name is broken today in Jesus' name.

3. The Lord will give you a new name of honour and glory.

4. Your name will open doors of opportunities in high places.

5. God will rewrite your story and establish your name in His purpose.

6. Your name will be a testimony of God’s faithfulness and power.

7. You will leave a legacy of righteousness and faith for future generations.

8. Every negative label attached to your name is cancelled in Jesus' name.

9. The name of Jesus will speak on your behalf in times of need.

10. Your name will be a symbol of transformation, favour, and victory.