Saturday, December 13, 2014

Live up to your Name


“Hi, what’s your name?” Common question, but loaded.  Names are more than what we are called by other humans… they hold spiritual context as well.  Whether we were named after a family member or given a completely unique name, God’s hand was a part of the process.  My parents were given my name by my mom’s family in El Paso, Texas -  the formal “Cynthia”.  It was also the 9th  most popular name of my birth year.  But after journeying in life up to now I can definitely see the tie between the meaning of my name “bringer of light” and the meaning of my life, as I see it unfolding.  Who I am by name and being is apparent through spiritual gifts; which are also given by God. 

Although He was the called the King of Kings, Jesus' earthly name was quite  ordinary.  Like John or Mike, used today.  The name Jesus corresponds to the Hebrew name Jeshua (or, in fuller form, Jehoshua), meaning Jehovah Is Salvation. His life purpose certainly matched his name.  Even if you don’t believe you are all your name implies, God knows you and knows your name.  He also knows why you were given your name and you can rest assured it fits with His plan.  Each of us, as believers, are also given the name “Christian” which means “follower of Christ”.  See, you fit with His plan! 



Back in 2009 I attended a leadership conference called EQUIP at Cornerstone Church in San Diego, CA.  That day, Pastor Sergio De La Mora spoke about having and living a mission statement.  He said, “Be the Statement”.  You may have only heard of having a mission statement for companies or churches but you can also have your own personal mission statement.  I have one posted on my website www.simplycindyrowe.com.   It was written after years of getting to know myself as God knows me.   Try to write one for yourself.   If  you don’t know where to start – use your name.  

Now it’s time for a quiz...  Does God know everything?  Does God know you?  Has He known you before you were born?  Has He set out a plan for your life?  Does He want to partner with you to accomplish those plans?  If you answered yes to all of these questions – go ahead - believe it, and then live up to your name.

 **Lord, thank you for my name.  I believe your hand was in my earthly naming.  I believe that you have set me apart for special purposes and have gifted me accordingly. Lead me into the truth of my life’s meaning.   Forgive me for not living up to my name as “Christian” and sometimes not living up to my given name but thank you for always giving me the opportunity to be called your child.  I love you and feel privileged to call you by name, My Lord Jesus, my Father Abba, and Holy Spirit- my Counselor. **

“… I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”  Ephesians 4:1 New International Version (NIV)
Click here for a link to take a spiritual gifts test:  WHO AM I

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