What's in a name? God's many monikers tell who he really is

"I will set him on High, because he knows and understands my name ..."

- Psalm 91:14 (AMP)

As a young nurse working in the labor and delivery unit, I had the privilege of making out the birth certificates with the newborns' names on them.

Before leaving the hospital, along with their footprints, every infant would have their specially chosen name penned on their birth certificate, cementing their lifetime identity.

Some parents were ready to name the baby the moment it emerged from the womb. But, oftentimes, parents labored long and hard over what they wanted to name their child.

Sometimes they used unique features such as a family resemblance in hopes to select the perfect name. Other times names were passed down from parents or great-grandparents. However, they went about it, selecting the right name for that new life was an important task.

So, what is it that is so significant about a name? Names appear to carry a stigma with them. They seem to reflect who we are.

In ancient times, a newborn's name was selected according to the characteristics their parent's desired them to possess. Whether they would be strong and vital, or full of grace was depicted in their name.

This tradition came from the Old Testament biblical days when God made himself and his character known to the early believers through the use of different Hebrew names. These names portray certain aspects about himself and the things he can provide.

The name EL Shaddai reveals that he is the God who provides; being called Jehovah Rapha depicts his quality to heal; Jehovah Shalom represents his provision of peace. These three are among the many names you see for God threaded through the pages of the Bible.

Researching the names of God can give us a better understanding of the resources available to us through our loving Creator. Knowledge of God's names can help us turn away from the destructive forces of sin and set us on the higher road in life.

As we meditate on God's characteristics, we cultivate trust in his nature to restore and heal, resulting in renewed life and a closer relationship with him.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted at annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.