Let’s do a short exercise together. When I say a word, you say aloud the name of the person who comes to mind. Are you ready? Let’s begin.
Honest, Liar, Trustworthy, Deceiver, Confidant, Manipulator, Wise, Straightforward
Those words were a mixture of positive and negative traits or behaviors. Some words may have instantly brought a person to the forefront of your mind. For example, a classic nickname for Abraham Lincoln was Honest Abe. Over time, President Lincoln proved himself to be exceptionally honest.
Names are important. They are obviously important to God, for He used them over and over again throughout scripture to reveal who He is and to show the character of those who followed Him, such as Abraham, Israel, and Paul.
As a leader, it is imperative that you recognize what values, character, and traits you are prompting to be associated with your name. I believe that Proverbs 22:1 is a great truth to keep before you as a reminder. “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
Think about this. What word comes to mind when others hear your name?
Gary R. Linn
Matthew 5:11(NKJV) 11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.
What is in the name of Jesus is all authority and power. That name can calm a storm, cast out demons and heal. That name is above all other names. He was called a malefactor in John 18:30; He was called a sorcerer in Matthew 24:12. Philipians 2:7 (NKJV)7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.
When God hears our name who does He associate us with? Great word Pastor Gary!
Thank you, Chris! May we be challenged again to walk righteously, blameless, and upright before our Savior and the world
so that the way we live our lives associates our name with who Jesus is.