As a Christian, it’s important that the name you answer doesn’t contradict the Word or what you believe about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So, if you haven’t found out the meaning of your name, do so; and if the meaning isn’t consistent with who you are in Christ, change it. The name you answer is a major confession in your life, because your name is your destiny.

 

The Lord Jesus changed Simon’s name to “Peter” for this same reason (Matthew 16:17-18). “Simon” means a reed that’s swayed in the wind; and that’s exactly how the man behaved. He would be courageous and full of faith one day, and doubting the next. But, “Peter” means a stone founded on a rock; by calling him Peter, the Master was revealing to him a new destiny and purpose.

 

Moreover, when Jacob had an encounter with the Lord, before the Lord blessed him, He had to change his name from Jacob to Israel. What was the connection between his name and the blessing?

 

The name “Jacob” means “swindler,” or “deceiver.” God wasn’t going to bless a “swindler” or a “deceiver”; He had to change his name to Israel first. He did the same with Abraham. Abraham had God’s promise upon his life, but his name had to be changed before the promise could be fulfilled: “Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee” (Genesis 17:5).

 

So, I ask you, what is your name? When your name is translated, what does it mean? Answer the right name! You shouldn’t bear a name that’s not consistent with what God’s Word says about you. Maybe your parents named you to reflect their rough experiences in life; but now you can do something about it. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first name or your last name; if it doesn’t agree with the Word, change it!