Monday, July 14, 2008

What's in a Name?

Do you wonder about names of people you encounter? Do you notice how a name grows on a person? What about nicknames? Why do we choose to nick name someone who has a longer name? Do people take offense to nicknames? Does your name having meaning in its origin? Was there significance in your parents giving you the name?

There's so much in a name. Our parents may have combined two names from our lineage to get ours. We may have been named after a relative or a special person. There is always a reason behind the name given to us. Then, sometimes life takes a turn and through either our parents or ourselves or friends, our name changes and we get a nick name. There are some parents who name their child with the intention of using a nick name or the middle name.

The last couple of years, I have earnestly tried to use a person's name more often in conversation or even in a simple "hi" as we pass. I noticed a certain co-worker, whom I didn't really know well, would always address me by my name in conversation even if a simple "Hi, Paula." It really caught my attention of how that made me feel even by a not-so-acquainted co-worker. There is just something about a person using our names. Since that time, I've tried to make an effort to include the use of names in conversations when addressing others.

I have even noticed my five-year-old niece does this quite often. Whenever she specifically addresses me, she always uses my name at the beginning or end of her statement. Of course it is adorable in her little voice to hear "thank you, Paula" when I hand her something for which she has asked. Or if she says "Paula, watch me jump rope fast." I love to also hear her call my mom "grandma" and my dad "grandpa". Nothing's sweeter from a wee little one. When my two nieces were even younger they would call me "Aunt Paulie". Now that was precious. Though my mom and brother still reference me as such the girls are so grown up (at 5 and 7) they now call me "Paula" but it is still precious hearing them say my name.

I love the name of Jesus. There's power in His Name. Power to cast out demons. So much power that satan cannot stand to hear it. So much power that we pray "In Jesus Name, Amen". Many times I prefer to reference Jesus rather than God. In our world there are many "gods" that people call upon and I never want to confuse my God with those others may have. So, to be more specific I like to reference Jesus, Lord, or Father. That's just a personal preference so that it is clear to others with whom I'm speaking that it is the God Almighty, the God of the Universe of which I'm referencing. I also prefer those names because they provide me a sense of closeness with my Lord. To say Jesus or Father or Lord is to say someone's first name instead of Mrs. Smith.

Let's take a look at SOME of the names of our Master.
God. Father. Abba. Son. Almighty. Immanuel. Christ. Messiah. Lord of Lords. Master. Jesus. King of Kings. I Am. Alpha and Omega. Lamb of God. Judge. Shepherd. Jehovah.

Jehovah-Jireh (The Lord will Provide)
Jehovah-Rophe (The Lord who Heals)
Jehovah-Shalom (The Lord of Peace)
El Shaddai (God Almighty)
Adonai (Master)

God put special importance and emphasis on names. He even changed some names: Abram to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah, Jacob to Israel.

As we studied Potiphar's wife in Sunday School, we also discussed the many other women in the Bible with no names. My favorite of course being the bleeding women. There is also the widow with two coins (rather mites, which is of least value), the sinful woman, the Samaritan woman at the well, the woman who washed Jesus' feet with her perfume. Why in these cases were their names not given? We know they have names. Was it more important in these cases to emphasize their stories and testimonies? Was their testimony to be more of an impact on us than their names? We were asked to introduce ourselves to another in class by a description without using our name. I am not a mother to anyone; I am not a wife to anyone. So, those were not automatic identifications on my mind. I thought "I am the daughter of a King." Wow. I have never thought about that in those terms. To think of a king in this world and royalty such as Queen Elizabeth or Prince Charles is to think on such power, privilege, and prestige. But I am not just the daughter of "a" king but rather THE King. The King of Kings. That struck a chord so deep because I've never felt the privilege of power or position. Yet, I have the greatest position of all...the daughter of the King. I do not hold this precious position alone though. I humbly share it with many women who've called upon the name of Jesus. The Name of Jesus. Wow...so much power.

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21

Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. Romans 1:5-6

What's your favorite name of our King?

In His Name,

45 comments:

Sharon said...

OOOOO Paula,
Magnificent posts. He is My Lord,
Lord of Lords, Kings of Kings, His Name is Jesus!!
I don't have a nickname, infact I don't think I know anyone with one.
My husband keeps trying to give me one, "out of fun" but My name is
Sharon, like the city in the Bible. I love that my name is in the Bible, even if it is a city.

Yes there is nothing like when a child of God, says those cute words or calls us by our names in that cute little way they do.
My mom says I never could say the word grandma, that I called her nemaw, and she said grandma loved what I called her, I guess this was her personal nick name from me.
If it made her happy and smile I am sure our Lord was doing the same.

Jesus yes what a powerful name it is. Just saying his name feels like so much authority. He is the King of all Kings. The Lord of all Lords. He is my JESUS.

Thank you Paula another wonderful post.
God Bless you my sister in Christ
Sharon

Natalie said...

It is wonderful that through all His names, we can always identify with one during various stages in our lives. I am so glad I can call Him "Father". I loved this post.

TeriAnnElizabeth said...

Paula,

HE uses you through the words in your posts, BUT, he uses you at times you don't even know!

When you wrote me e-mail about my testimony and how you felt it affected you - plus wanting to know more - can I just tell you it was exactly a GOD moment timed EXACTLY perfectly.

I was having a "down day". Praying for GOD to help me and show me which road to take over 3 places in my life. Plus, a son who can break my heart so easily.

You were a blessings at the moment I needed it!

Thank you for listening to GOD'S whispers - the Holy Spirit does speak to you.

I will write you personal in e-mail tomorrow.

Much love and blessings,
Teri

2nd Cup of Coffee said...

My favorite name for the Lord is Prince of Peace--personal peace and the only hope for world peace.

Lynn - JnL4God said...

Paula
Great post as always. I heard a story once about how God knew our names in the womb and what were our names.... Joy - Peace- kinkness- Merciful.. your post reminded me of that.
The woman that washed Jesus' feet with the perfume was Mary.
Have a great night.
xoxo
Lynn

valerie said...

Paula,
I like the reminder to call people by name. I don't think I do that often enough.
I was going to be named "Christy" but when I was born on Valentine's Day I was named "Valerie Chris."
It's hard to say a favorite name for God. One day He is my peace...another day He is my provider...another day He is my joy and delight....on and on.
He's my everything. He's my good and faithful God.

Jenn @ Casa de Castro said...

Hmmmm... I love ALL the names of the Lord. I suppose my favorite is Abba. The closest translation in our language would be "Daddy." I know we aren't supposed to approach the throne of the Most High God haphazzardly or irreverantly, and I don't mean to imply that. I just LOVE the mental image of a child sitting safely in the arms of his/her daddy and experiencing the unconditional love that comes from him.

During this particular season of my life, I'm also loving another of His names: Jehoval Jireh. My provider. He is so faithful to give us EXACTLY what we need just when we need it. He's never too early and never late. He's always right on time.

Thanks for yet another great and thought-provoking post!

Chel's Leaving a Legacy said...

Hi Paula, (see? I used your name!)

This is my first time to post a comment on your sweet corner of blogland.

I've read several of your posts, and may I say that the Glory of the Lord shines from each one!

How precious is the Name of Jesus to me. I think one of my favorite names for Him is the Good Shepherd. Because I really am a dumb sheep; vulnerable, weak (when I'm on my own!) But He gives such comfort, security, a watchful eye. I love Him for that.

And He always comes after me when I wander off. I never "mean" to wander, but I get distracted sometimes by all I have to do, and He ALWAYS comes for me.

Thank you for your post and allowing me another opportunity to worship Him tonight!

Nicole said...

Paula,

Wonderful post! My mom always believed in the power of a name and the meaning. My name means victorious and I claim that and believe I am through Christ who gives me strength! I believe so much in names and their meaning that when we decided to name our cat "Raz" I became a little concerned. We liked the sound of the name but when I looked it up there was no meaning for his name. Needless to say we decided to still name him Raz but I think of this alot when I say his name.

Right now my favorite name of God is Jehovah Jireh-The Lord provides. Also, Jehovah Rapha-The Lord who heals! They all mean so much to me and apply to my life at different times. Several months ago the Lord kept speaking to me El-Shaddai-The Mighty God-The Double breasted God. In John Paul Jackson's book called "I AM" Inherting the Fullness of God's Names he talks about the definition of each of God's names. I like when John Paul says "When we face problems that overwhelm us, we need to remember that El-Shaddai is more powerful than any difficulties we face. If we worship Him, He will fulfill His promises. It is important for us to understand and meditate on the various names of God, because He wants to place His name on our forehead (Revelation 22:4). Inside each of us, God wants to place his complex and rich character, comprising all the glory His names describe."

Wow, can you tell I am really passionate about this!!! I encourage you to check out John Paul Jackson's book at www.streamsministries.com. The Lord has blessed him with a lot of great insight. He has a wonderful testimony and is a very respectable man of God. He is the first prophet that I have encountered. He also teaches classes on dream interpretation and things regarding the supernatural! He has been a wonderful mentor for me. I have never met him but I faithly have read his blog, some of his books and ordered and listend to some of his CD's. His ministry and life have been such a blessing to me!

Hugs,
Nicole

Abba's Girl said...

You preached me happy this morning. Great post sister!

One of my favorite names for the Lord is: The Great I Am, I also love Alpha & Omega, as well as Ancient of Days. I also love the fact He has a name which is not known on earth and cannot be profaned.

I pray we all see You Lord through out the day, we remember You are the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, Mighty God.

Annette

About Nancy said...

I think I like "Abba" because it reflects the closeness God wants with His children. It makes me feel loved and protected by the great "I AM."
Great post,
Nancy

Jenn @ Casa de Castro said...

Second comment here...

Came across this video on YouTube set to Phillips, Craig and Dean's "Your Name." Beautiful!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2qm3eD4akM

Runner Mom said...

Hey, Paula!
What a wonderful post! When meeting someone for the first time, I forget that person's name as soon as they tell me!! I hate when that happens. I know why it does--my mind is processing a dozen other things as well. What I need to do is truly listen--the way that Jesus did. That is going to be my prayer today, my friend! I want to be able to call others by their name the way He calls me.

My favorite name for God is my Redeemer. Isn't it wonderful to be the daughter of a King :).
Blessings,
Susan

christi said...

wonderful post paula!!

i myself love Lord of Lords and King of Kings. i love when we sing that song in church!

my 4 yr old, when she was little, tried her hardest to say grandma to my husbands mom and it always came out as Bam maw. it stuck! that is what she calls her to this day. we all love it and dont you know that the Lord loves to hear us call Him by name!! just like we love to hear our loved ones call us by name so does our Heavenly Father!

blessings ~

godlover said...

Thanks for your post, Paula. A great one as usual! I have developed the habit of reading "Jehovah" when the Bible says "LORD." I figure if God submitted his personal name (YHWH) to us over 6,000 times in the Bible, He must really like that name a lot. Shows that we're family on a first name basis. I don't fully understand why the Bible writers up and decided to substitute LORD anyway. Thanks for your great post!

Marj
http://gdlvr.blogspot.com

Natalie said...

I'm sad to say, Paula, that I didn't make the "big" cake. I must give credit where credit is due. A friend of the family did.

andi said...

I read this post yesterday and wanted to think about it. I have decided my favorite name is "I Am".
Great post Paula! :)

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

"El Roi" (the God who sees) from Hagar in Genesis 16:13. I think this is the only time is it used in Scripture. It's just so personal and wonderfully descriptive of my God who has watched over me all of the days of my life.

Thanks for the great post.

peace~elaine

Yolanda said...

Paula,

When I opened up your post, my breath just totally expelled. I've been wondering the meaning, CHRISTIAN meaning, behind my name. And a scripture that I might come up with to go along with Yolanda.

If you have any ideas, great.

This is simply....touching.

My favorite name of Christ is probably Healer, because He heals us more than we can even imagine!

Lovingly,
Yolanda

krista said...

Paula,
What an awesome post! I have always loved singing "There's Something About That Name" by Bill and Gloria Gaither. It is so true that "the mere mention of His name can calm the storm, heal the broken, raise the dead".

I have a wonderful story about my daughter's name. She is adopted and my husband suggested the name Hannah. I knew Hannah was Samuel's mother, but I didn't remember anything else about her story. I literally cried as I read the story of Hannah,who just like me yearned to me a mom. Hannah cried out to the Lord that He might give her a son. I knew her pain, her longing and the overwhelming feeling of inadequacy she must have felt. I imagine Hannah had many sleepless nights that she wondered if she would every hear someone call her mommy. The times and traditions were different in Hannah’s day, but I imagine the feelings were exactly the same. Just as God in Heaven heard and answered Hannah’s prayer, the same God, still on the Throne, had heard and answered mine. I knew God had hand-picked my daughter's name!

Thanks for the wonderful post!

Mindy said...

Adonai is my favorite, as it reminds me that He is the master of all things, including me. I am so thankful that my burdens are not mine alone, but His as well.

Joyful said...

Paula, I'm partial to "I Am" - as He is EVERYTHING to me! It doesn't matter what or how I need to experience Him, He responds, "I am".

I got my name, as my parents did not know they were having twins. They were so excited, "Joy" seemed like the natural response!

Thank you for your faithful visits to my blog and words of encouragement. They mean so very much!

Blessings,
Joy

elderchild said...

Sad it is ;-( that the multitudes believe a heretical
tradition regarding The One many, who say they are
believers, seek to follow. He Who is "The Messiah,
The Son of The Living GOD".

Seems there is undeniable proof that the traditional name
of 'jesus' was not The Messiah's GOD given birth Name
in any language! And proof exists in not just one, but all
New Testament Greek manuscripts from which catholic
and christian translators created their version of the
"bibles"!

Yes, undeniable proof!

First, the Greek word "Iesous" was used by those who
translated the Greek Septuagint, which was the Hebrew
to Greek translation of the Old Testimonies.

In the Greek Septuagint, which was translated prior to
the birth of The Messiah, the Greek word "Iesous" was
used to represent "Je(o)shua, son of Nun, so named by
Moses". (Numbers 13:16)

And so it was established that the Greek name "Iesous"
represented the Hebrew name YeHoWsHuwa'(which
should have been translated as Jeshua, rather than
'joshua' in the English language Old Testaments).

Then in most all the New Testament translations, from
the various Greek manuscripts, the word "Iesous" was
translated correctly as Je(o)shua(YeHoWsHuwa') in both
Acts 7:45 and Heb 4:8 and then the same Greek word
"Iesous" was traditionally(for the past 500, or so, years)
translated as their "imag"ined 'jesus' in all other places
of the English language New Testaments ;-(

However, in the original kjv(aptly named as king james'
version for it was of his church OF england) those who
did the translating of the New Testament decided to
rename Je(o)shua and declared the Je(o)shua of the
Old Testament to be of the same name as their
"imag"ined 'jesus' in both Acts 7:45 and Heb 4:8 ;-(

At least the translators of the kjv were consistent, and
in every place translated "Iesous" as 'jesus', yet the
result of their consistency is confusion ;-(

And so it was that a heretical tradition was established
less than 500 years past ;-(

Now if one wishes to take liberty and change the name
of the Old Testament "Je(o)shua" to 'jesus', well that is
their choice, yet a sad choice indeed and Truth ;-(

And worse yet you could accept the traditional lie that
the Greek word "Iesous" represents both "Jeshua" and
the catholic and christian 'jesus'. For those who seek
The Light of Truth that is confusing at best! Another
sad choice ;-( Simply, The Messiah, and Jeshua of
The Old Testimonies were given the same name.

I have been, and know that i will yet be accused of
having my portion with the "sacred name folk" or some
other similar religious group. And yet that is as far
from Truth as one could be, for i believe that, "that
which decayed and waxed old" did indeed and Truth
"vanish away" with the destruction of the earthly,
natural kingdom that was centered in old jerusalem.

The Kingdom of GOD is now Spiritual and the body of a
believer is the Temple for the indwelling Spirit, The Spirit
that leads believers on The Way to The Truth of The Life.

Sadly, many believe that a name is not important ;-( Now
when a man makes such a statement to me i simply reply,
"ok, if that's what you believe Martha", or if it be a woman,
"ok, if that's what you believe Matthew". And the Name
of The Messiah? Not important? Since when is Truth not
important?

Truth is important, for apart from Truth there is nothing
but "confusion and every evil work" and Truth IS that the
"imag"ined name of 'jesus' was not spoken for more than
1500 years after The Only True GOD raised The Messiah
from among the dead! Truth IS that The Messiah's GOD
given birth Name was YeHoWsHuwa'(Jeshua in modern
day English)!

Prior to the 16th century there was no 'j' sound in the
English language and that is is verifiable in most any
encyclopedia. And there never has been a 'j' sound in
either Hebrew or Greek.

Seems the vain "imag"inations of the "catholic" and
"christian" systems of religion have caused "The Way
of Truth to be evil spoken of", so why continue to use
their "imag"ined name for "The Son of Living GOD"?

Those who yet cling to the "imag"ined name of 'jesus',
after The Truth was presented unto them, have chosen
to accept the traditional lies of pagan catholicism and
her firstborn "christian" daughter, "the church OF england" ;-(

I am sad for all yet held captive by the "strong delusion"
that is their "imag"ined 'jesus' ;-(

Yet there is hope!

For Miracles do happen!

Hope is there would be those who would experience
The Miracle that is receiving "a love of The Truth"!

Truth IS, Yeshua(Jeshua in modern day english) is
The Messiah, Immanuel, The Son of The Living GOD!

Peace, in spite of the dis-ease(no-peace) that is of
this wicked world and it's systems of religion, for
"the WHOLE world is under the control of the evil
one"(1Jn5:19) indeed and Truth....... francisco

connie said...

I so agree names are very important, to us, I love to hear someone say my name, i'm not really one that likes it, and it isn't a common name so I just like to hear it...
You are in my prayers...
Connie
GBU

Kristen said...

Loved, loved, loved this post!

My mom was going to name me Kristine Lynn... but when it came time to fill out the birth certificate she wrote Kristen Ann. God knew that was to be my name - called me by that name before anyone else in all this world knew I even existed!

I love the many names of our Father and of His son!

Thank you for your blog... He speaks through you!

Laura said...

Hi, Paula! I have been thinking about names ever since we were encouraged to look ours up in the first chapter of What Happens When Women Walk in Faith. I love what you say in this post, that names are important to God. I cannot choose a favorite name, but agree it is important to know them and the qualities they represent. Lately, I have been calling Him, "My LOve" in my prayers. Does that seem odd? For He knows me more intimately than any other, and I long to know ever more of Him. Thanks for the thought provoking post!

Tracy said...

Paula,
What an awesome and thought provoking post! You're right, there is something special about calling someone by name. I too love the endearing quality of our nicknames and thier origins. My son, though he is almost 20 is still known affectionately as Snuglet (or Snugs) by my husband and I. In turn, he often calls us Momma-let or Daddy-let, too...precious.

As to the name of God...I've always been particularly drawn to Immanuel..."God with us." What a comfort.

Thank you for sharing this beautiful message.

Blessings,
Tracy

P.S. Loved your comment today...we have much in common! I did add a sidenote to my post as a result...; )

Aunt Angie said...

Paula---this was incredible! I know at times in my life when it seemed the world had come crashing in....the name of Jesus--brought SUCH comfort to my soul.
Thank you for your kind comment on my post yesterday. I LOVE finding new inspirational and encouraging places to read--and I have found one HERE! This was so good! I can't wait to dig in for more :)

Addicted to Beadz said...

Paula,

I've seen you around the blogging community as well! Who could miss that beautiful pink (gerber daisy). I think it is a gerber daisy, at least.

Thank you so much for visiting and commenting on my blog.

I also saw the lovely comment you left on Angie's blog about the award.

Thanks for sharing your heart!

Cheryl

Amy said...

Hi Paula!

I love Father the best. It is so personal.

My mom named me Amy after an old Bobby Darin song that was popular at the time I was born.
Amy means "Beloved."

She liked the name, because she thought it was pretty, but God had bigger things in mind than just a pretty name.

Back in 2003, when we were in the early stages of healing in our marriage, I loved Shannon, but I had a lot of trouble "showing" him love. We are a very affectionate couple, but during that difficult time, I could not even hold his hand.
So at Christmas, I decided to get him something that would constantly
remind him of my love since "showing" him was still difficult.

His original wedding band was very beaten up after years of working construction, so I decided to get him a new band for Christmas.
On the band are the words-
"I AM MY BELOVED'S ~ MY BELOVED IS MINE"
When he opened the gift, he cried.
The words are of course Song Of Solomon 6:3, but what made it so personal is the word "BELOVED."
Since Amy means Beloved, each time he looked at it, he would think, "I AM AMY'S~ AND AMY IS MINE."

He wears that ring so proudly, and every time someone asks him what the ring says, he tells them the whole story. ;)

So even though my mom named me Amy for "her" reasons, God had a much bigger reason.:)

This is a lovely post.
God Bless,
Amy:)

Peggy said...

Blessings Paula
" What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet " Sweetpea..

"The girl's name Paula \pa(u)-la\ is pronounced PAW-lah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "small". Feminine form of Paul. A Roman name and saint's name. Paula was used among early Christians , probably to honor Saint Paul. It was not used widely in English-speaking countries until the 20th century."

Sweetpea gives me the idea of something small also and obviously sweet. Perhaps that is why I felt I could approach you thru email.
Though I don't like "peas", I thought I may like what this one had to say because after all, she has a Father that is the King of kings, and Lord or lords...He too
has a sweet name, Jesus! Just say the name...Jesus! How rich and full of character...His Name shows all of WHO HE IS!

I never use my full legal name except as my signature and legal things...only my father would use the 2 together and it was always to discipline me. Yet that name,
I have rejected my entire life...
for such a reason...and yet it holds great significance... a
"pearl". Pearls are usually hidden within a shell and as a metaphor for something fine, rare and admirable. All of those qualities become a pearl, only as the King's daughter, too. Because without HIM,
I am small and insignificant. But as HE cleans me up, purifies me, I truly can shine brillantly. I shine with the Light of His Truth.
I encourage with the Truth of His Light. Salt and Light...for Jesus!

Thank you for inspiring me! Thank you for pointing me in the direction of honoring His Name...
Jehovah Nissi, my banner...My Shepherd, My Lord, My Savior,
My Alpha and Omega...Jesus, My King! Blessed be His Name! Be blessed and continue to share
in His Name, words to encourage!

Thank you for honoring me by your visit of one of my first posts, that's 94 posts ago and your email
reply!

Darlene said...

Great post!
I saw in your profile that you live in Indiana. My husband is on his way to your state with a load of hay from Nebraska. He drives a truck. I am not sure what part of the state he is delivering to. I thought it was neat that I had just talked to him and then I saw you are from the state in which he is traveling to.

Have a fabulous day!
Darlene

Skoots1moM said...

yes...i just needed a change with some summer colors. I haven't gotten brave enough to buy a new background or check out other templates.

thanks for coming by!

Renee Swope said...

What a powerful devotion!!!!! I love your blog and I am so glad I finally made it over here to smell the daisies!! I love them!!!

Thank you so much for your honest and challenging post. I am praying for your girl. I promise, I am praying!!!!

My heart breaks to hear your heart break. I have more to share later but for now I just wanted to give you a blogger hug!

Also, in the middle of the pain of your brokeness I pray that you see how the beauty of your ministry, and how much God is using you to touch women's lives. I know your heart is hurting so deeply, but I see the love of Jesus pouring out of you in a breath-taking way.

He loves you, He loves you, He loves you!

Sharon said...

Paula, My sweet Sister, pleaseeee go to my web site I have a surprise for you...
Hugggs
sharon

Melanie said...

Hi, Paula. I love Jehovah-Shalom. I love that God can and will give us peace regardless of the situation.

Have a great weekend!

Joanne@ Blessed... said...

What a beautiful post my friend.

I often tell my children to make sure to give their own children strong names. Names are so very important. In the book of Matthew the lineage that is listed in the first chapter...I've been told that when you search out the meanings of each name it foretells the coming of the Messiah.

Do you know that your name means? My husband's name is Paul so I am guessing that Paula is more than likely the same meaning as his...it means small. I find it to be amazing that when Saul was transformed by Christ, he took the name Paul, what a humbling name to take for such an amazingly godly man.

WOW....

Blessings, Joanne

much2ponder said...

About speak a person's name, you are correct...when we hear our name spoken it does cause a feeling in us like nothing else does.

I call people by their first name often to show a personal interest in them. Even in the grocery store, I read the name tag so at the end of my order I can thank them by name. They usually look at me a little funny and ask "Do I know you?" and I reply "no, I read your name tag." I kind of sets people off guard for a moment.

Also if I am in line for a lengthy period of time and a person has an unusual name I ask them about it and make a comment about it. Somehow it seems to make people relate on some level instead of just scanning the items through and saying a polite thank you at the end.

I am one to note little things at times and this is one way to begin a conversation with people we see in public but might not otherwise speak to.

In my writing I often refer to Jesus as Lord, probably more than any other name. Don't know why really, I guess I just like the way it sounds and what it represents in my life. I love Immanuel also it makes me feel he is close.

andi said...

Just wanted you to know that I have given you an award. Come on by to grab it. :0)

Tonja said...

Beautiful thoughts! We teach our children at school how to say,"Good morning, Mrs. Owens"..or whatever teacher it may be. We talk about how we like to hear our names, and so do they.

We then talk about how Jesus likes to hear His name, too. But, we must never use it to say unkind things...only sweet and loving words.

Yes, there is power in that name of Jesus!

Unknown said...

Paula:

All I can say is wow! What an awesome teaching. Thank you for blessing us with it.

In Christ,
Mari

P.S. Thanks for stopping by my blog. You're alwasys so gracious to me :)

Unknown said...

Oh I forgot to answer your question.

My favorite name for God is a toss-up between

El Shaddai - God Almighty, The All-Sufficient One

and

Adonai - Lord

When put together - Lord God Almighty. That says it all for me

In Christ,
Mari

Lelia Chealey said...

His Name is so wonderful!! Brings me much comfort to just say the Name of Jesus over & over again.

From the Heart said...

Paula,
Thanks for your help with the award. I hope you will visit my blog at fromtheheartae.blopspot.com
and let me know if I did it right.
AliceE.

GOD'S LADIE said...

All his names are my favorite, but the ones that I call on the most are El Shaddai, Father, Adonai, Jehovah Rophe and Jehovah Jireh. Surely, He is GOD ALMIGHTY! He's proven to be that in my life over and over. HE has been my FATHER in place of my earthly one (only seen him 5 times in my life). HE has healed me and provided for me all my life! PRAISE THE LORD! I am humbled and blessed that I am HIS daughter!
Simply remarkable, Paula!
Blessings,
LaTonya