What's In A Name?

To name something is to give it uniqueness.  Names have reputations.  In Proverbs 22:1 it says, "A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver or gold."

As an ordained minister, I have baptized and dedicated many babies.  When I do this, I research the name, write it on parchment, tie it in a ribbon, and give it to the parents.  I believe the name helps to identify who we are to become.  For instance, my name is RUTH, which means:  "Compassionate; pure one; etc."  I try to live up to that name. 

Businesses and brands have names and reputations as well.  My dad was in the plumbing business for over 40 years.  And--even 18 years after his death--people were still calling us and requesting him to do their plumbing.  That's because he had a GOOD REPUTATION!

Believers are named after Christ...we're called "Christians."  We're in the family of God; we're His children.  Are we living up to the name....or are we damaging His reputation? 

America's reputation is not what it used to be.  Sad, but true!  Corrupt politicians, broken marriages, delinquent kids, crime, etc. have damaged our country's reputation.  So how can we regain a good reputation 'round the world?  Here's the answer:

"If My people, which are called by MY NAME, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My Face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."  [II Chronicles 7:14]

Too many in this country take His Name "in vain."  [Exodus 20:7 - the 3rd Commandment]  In other words--they only use His Name to speak prophanity!

We need to WATCH our WORDS...CHANGE our WAYS and LIVE up to the name we call ourselves... CHRISTIANS!