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In the Bible, a person’s name holds great significance—it reflects their character, God’s purpose for them, and their destiny. As I read through Scripture, I noticed that several individuals experienced a divine name change. This change signified a new chapter in their lives—a transformation brought about by God’s intervention. When God wanted to bring change in a person, He would change their name.
Here are a few examples:
- Abram → Abraham
- Sarai → Sarah
- Jacob → Israel
- Saul → Paul
- Simon → Peter
As I reflected on these changes, I came to a realization: my name had also been changed.
When my citizenship shifted from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light, my identity changed as well!
Once, I was a sinner, a slave, a blasphemer, a liar, a thief, a deceiver, a slanderer, a cheat…
But today, in Christ, I am called: a saint, a priest, His beloved, chosen, a child of God, blessed, and precious.
An encounter with Christ brings this transformation. The process begins with a decision—repentance, surrender, and baptism in both water and the Spirit. It continues by gaining a clear understanding of who I am in Christ, taking responsibility for my actions, depending on the Holy Spirit, showing up every day, and resisting the temptation to conform to my old identity.
It is a lifelong, intentional journey with the Holy Spirit—living up to the name God has given me and fulfilling the purpose for which He created me.
And when I feel weighed down by problems, temptations, failures, and doubts about who I am, I find freedom by spending time with the Lover of my soul. I hear Him call me:
- “The apple of My eye”
- “My precious possession”
- “My beloved”
- “My delight”
Isaiah 62:2 – “The nations will see your vindication, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name, bestowed by the mouth of the LORD.”
When you know your changed name, you will live for the glory of the One who changed it.
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