What's in a Name?

I will give thanks to the Lord according to His righteousness, 

and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.   

Psalm 7:17

What’s in a name?  In today’s society, it is mostly just that – a name.  Barnes & Noble stocks a large selection of baby name books for expectant parents to peruse.  A baby boy might be given his father’s name, as a Jr., the II or perhaps the IV.  Or the child might be named for a grandparent, a distant relative, or a historical figure.  Some parents make up a name, or take a common name and give it a unique spelling.

Proper names in Biblical times carried far greater meaning.  A child’s name was chosen as an indicator of their natural character, their outward appearance, or the traits that formed their basic nature. After Sarah laughed at the idea of having a child in her 90’s, she named that miracle son Isaac, which means laughter.  When God covenanted with Abram to make him the father of many nations, He changed his name from Abram [Exalted Father] to Abraham [Father of Nations].  Moses’ name in Egypt meant drawn from water, but the Hebrew meaning is savior.

Our verse from the Psalms indicates joy at singing the praise of the name of the Lord.  What exactly is the name of the Lord? Over the next few weeks of the Advent season, I would like to explore with you the various names of God throughout history, beginning with Jesus: the names attributed to Him as well as the names He used for Himself.  It is a fascinating journey.  I hope you will travel it with me.

On this day after Thanksgiving Day, I do indeed give thanks to the Lord for His righteousness - His purity of character, His sinless goodness, His holiness.  After all, He has promised to cover me with that righteousness, making this page of my life "whiter than snow."   What an outstanding reason to praise His holy name!

His name is Wonderful, His name is Wonderful,

His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.

He is the mighty King, Master of everything

His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.