Will God Give Me a New Name?
Sunday, April 28, 2024 by Melissa McLaughlin

Does Anyone Know My Name?

Though surrounded by people, I was unknown. This was my first time attending overnight summer camp with a friend. I was nine years old and we were both excited for a new adventure.

We settled into our cabin, shared our names and a few tidbits about ourselves, then tackled our first task. We designed nametags to wear for the week.

The nametags consisted of small wooden discs dangling from a piece of yarn. Sturdy enough to make it through a week of energetic activities.

The week flew by. We took hikes, made crafts, played games, went swimming, and one night even slept under the stars in a meadow in our sleeping bags. My friend and I enjoyed the time together and made new friends, too.

Though the camp counselors were kind and the kids were friendly, my nametag hung around my neck as a sign that I was not really known.

Called By Name and Loved by God

Even as adults, there are times we feel like a face in the crowd. Just another number on the list. We wonder, “Is anyone really interested in me as a person?”

With God, however, we are fully known and fully loved. Despite countless people on earth, He sees us, knows us by name, and loves us personally. You and I matter to God.

Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. Isaiah 43:1

God, who created us, knows us even better than we know ourselves. For He has known and loved us from all eternity.

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

God Gives People a New Name

Remarkably, God’s knowledge and love for people led Him to give certain people names in the Bible.

Here are a few examples:

Abram/Abraham – Abram means “exalted father.” God renamed him Abraham, meaning “father of many.” –Genesis 17:4-6
Sarai/Sarah – Sarai means “my princess.” God changed her name to Sarah, meaning “princess” without limitation. –Genesis 17:15-16
Solomon/Jedidiah – Though known as Solomon, meaning “peace,” God gave Solomon the name Jedidiah at birth, which means “beloved of the Lord.” –2 Samuel 12:25
Simon/Peter – Born with the name Simon, meaning “moveable stone,” Jesus changed his name to Peter, which is a “foundational rock structure.” –Matthew 16:13-20

God Knows Our True Identity

Interestingly, there are fine nuances to these name changes. God’s attention to detail reminds us that He sees the deepest parts of us, knows us completely, and then calls us to be who He has made us to be. This demonstrates His intimate knowledge of us and our actual God-given identity.

Will God Give Me a New Name?

Have you ever wondered if God will give you a new name? What would it be? If you feel like you’re not important enough for God to give you a special name, be encouraged.

In Revelation 2:17, we read, “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.”

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are counted among the victorious ones. Hallelujah, these promises are for you and me!

What does God promise believers? Hidden manna, and a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

This passage is marvelous and mysterious. We know God provided manna for His people in the wilderness, and Christ provided the bread of eternal life. Therefore, we recognize the hidden manna will be a divine provision from God.

The second promise is the white stone. This stone is wonderful to imagine, with a new name, known only to the one who receives it.

As blood-bought children of God, robed in Christ’s righteousness, we can be certain our new name will reveal our true identity in Christ.

Additionally, this verse highlights our intimate relationship with the Father. For this name is known only by God and the one receiving it.

This is how precious you are to God. He knows you by name right now.

Yet, there is a more abundant blessing to come. God will give you a new name, that He holds in His heart for you.

Have you ever wondered what that name might be?

May we seek the Lord, with all our hearts today, knowing that endless blessings await us in heaven!

Spiritual Life

Join author and teacher, Melissa McLaughlin, and grow in Truthful Grace as we ignite the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our hearts, minds, prayers and lives. Grow in Christ, grow in the knowledge of His Word, the Bible, grow the passion in your prayers.

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