THE BLESSING OF A NAME (Part 1)

Title: THE BLESSING OF A NAME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 17:5
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 22:1, Philippians 2:9-10, Isaiah 62:2

INTRODUCTION:
A name holds significant power in Scripture. It represents identity, destiny, and God's covenantal promise. In Genesis 17:5, God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, signifying a shift in his life’s purpose and calling. Names are not just labels but carry with them spiritual meaning and prophetic destiny. Understanding the blessing of a name is key to walking in the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.

1. A NAME IS A SYMBOL OF IDENTITY

a) It Defines Who You Are:
A name is tied to your identity and purpose. Abram became Abraham, marking the fulfillment of God's promise of becoming the father of many nations (Genesis 17:5).

b) It Reflects God's Calling on Your Life:
Names like Isaac (laughter) and Israel (God’s prince) are linked to the divine calling and destiny over a person’s life (Genesis 17:19, Genesis 32:28).

c) Your Name Is Linked to Your Legacy:
The name you carry often reflects your family heritage and spiritual inheritance, like David's name, which became synonymous with kingship.

d) It Can Be a Testimony of Transformation:
Jacob’s name was changed to Israel, symbolising his transformation from deceiver to a man of God’s covenant (Genesis 32:28).

Biblical Example: Jesus changed Simon's name to Peter, signifying his transformation from a fisherman to the foundational rock of the Church (Matthew 16:18).

2. A NAME SPEAKS TO THE BLESSINGS OF GOD’S PROMISE

a) A Name Is Connected to Covenant Promises:
When God changes a name, He often is announcing a new season of blessing. Abraham's new name represented God's covenant promise of descendants beyond measure (Genesis 17:5).

b) Names Represent Divine Favor:
God's blessing is often attached to names in the Bible, like Isaac, whose name meant laughter, pointing to the joy of a promised child (Genesis 21:6).

c) A Name Brings Authority and Influence:
In Philippians 2:9-10, Jesus' name was exalted above all names, giving Him authority in heaven and on earth. Similarly, the name of a believer in Christ brings spiritual authority.

d) A Name Can Bring Restoration and Change:
God changes the names of individuals as an indication of their destiny change, like when He changed Sarai to Sarah, the mother of nations (Genesis 17:15).

Biblical Example: The name of the Lord is a strong tower that the righteous can run into and be safe (Proverbs 18:10).

3. A NAME CAN OPEN DOORS OR CLOSE THEM

a) A Good Name Brings Favor:
Proverbs 22:1 emphasizes the value of a good name, saying it is more desirable than great riches. A good reputation opens doors of opportunity.

b) A Name Can Create Influence:
The name of Jesus has power to heal, save, and deliver, demonstrating how a name can change the atmosphere and situations (Mark 16:17).

c) Your Name Represents Your Legacy:
A good name leaves behind a powerful legacy that influences future generations. Abraham’s name, associated with faith, still impacts generations today.

d) A Name Reflects Your Character:
The name you carry is a reflection of your character. Jacob, whose name meant “supplanter,” was transformed into Israel, a name that symbolised overcoming struggles and walking in God's blessing (Genesis 32:28).

Biblical Example: Ruth's name was linked to faithfulness, and through her, God brought forth a king, David (Ruth 4:17).

4. THE POWER OF THE NAME OF JESUS

a) The Name of Jesus is Above All Names:
Philippians 2:9-10 reveals that Jesus' name has been exalted above every other name, and it is through this name that all believers have access to God’s blessings.

b) The Name of Jesus Brings Salvation:
Jesus' name is the means by which we are saved and reconciled to God (Acts 4:12).

c) The Name of Jesus Brings Healing and Deliverance:
Every knee shall bow at the name of Jesus, and sicknesses, demonic forces, and obstacles must bow to His name (Mark 16:17).

d) The Name of Jesus is Powerful in Prayer:
Jesus taught us to pray in His name, for it is through His name that we receive answers to prayer (John 14:13).

Biblical Example: In Acts 3:6, Peter used the name of Jesus to heal the lame man, showing the power that is in the name of Jesus.

5. THE IMPORTANCE OF DECLARING YOUR GOD-GIVEN NAME

a) Declare Your Identity in Christ:
Speak and declare the identity God has given you. You are no longer a sinner; you are a child of God with an inheritance (Romans 8:17).

b) Proclaim Your Blessings:
Speak your blessings into existence. Abraham declared his faith, and his name and destiny followed (Romans 4:17).

c) Confess the Power of Your Name in Christ:
When you declare the name of Jesus over your life, you are aligning yourself with divine destiny and authority.

d) Speak Life over Your Name:
Just as God spoke life into Adam, we are to speak life over our names and destinies, declaring God’s purpose in every area of our lives.

Biblical Example: David declared his name and his victory over Goliath, and the outcome was a great testimony of God’s power (1 Samuel 17:45).

CONCLUSION:
The blessing of a name is not just in the sound or meaning of the name itself but in the divine destiny and authority it carries. As believers, we are given a name that represents the power, promises, and covenant of God. When we understand the significance of our name, we can align ourselves with God's plan and step into the blessings He has for us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to understand the power and significance of my name.

2. Father, I declare that my name will bring glory to You in all things.

3. I pray that my name will be associated with your blessings and favor.

4. Lord, transform my name into a testimony of Your greatness.

5. I declare that the name of Jesus is exalted in my life.

6. Father, let Your covenant promises be fulfilled through the name You have given me.

7. I pray for a legacy that reflects Your glory and purpose.

8. Lord, may my name open doors of opportunity and favor.

9. Father, I declare my identity in Christ, and I walk in victory today.

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

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. Your name will be a name of favor and blessing in this season.

2. The name of Jesus will speak over your life today and always.

3. You will walk in the fullness of the covenant promises attached to your name.

4. Your name will open doors that were previously closed to you.

5. You will leave a legacy that testifies to the greatness of God.

6. Your name will bring transformation to your family and future generations.

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

8. Your name will be associated with miracles and divine favor.

9. The Lord will give you a new identity and destiny in Christ.

10. As you declare the name of Jesus, all things will work together for your good.