When We Don’t Like The Name God Gives Us

Last May I went to Israel on a trip led by Bianca and Matt Olthoff and Mariners Church. I was so excited to walk where Jesus walked, visit the Holy sites, and to see the Bible come to life. I really hoped it would change the way I read the Bible {something that has always felt a little cumbersome for me and I’m a smart girl who loves to read — ugh — what is wrong with me?} and it did do that. And so much more.

One of the highlights of the trip for me was when we went to Gideon’s Spring. Do you know about Gideon’s Spring? I didn’t because like I said…I wasn’t the girl who was camped out in the book of Judges. But Gideon’s Spring is where God appeared to Gideon and called him a “Mighty Warrior.”

When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:12

Instead of just recapping the story of how Gideon was called to free the people of Israel, Matt challenged us to spend some time asking God what name He was giving us for this season. So off I went to pick a table with my Bible and a journal and to hear from God.

I was a little nervous that I wouldn’t hear much of anything. But also hopeful that God might give me a name to usher in a new season.

{You know like…Beautiful Bride, Mother of Many, or something anything new and exciting? Heck, I’d take Mighty Warrior.}

But do you know what name I heard instead?

Faithful Servant.

{Bleh.}

And do you know how I know it was from God?

Well, I know it was from God, because that would be THE LAST NAME I would give myself.

{I kind of hated it. No, I really hated it. Like I cried I hated it so much.}

“Faithful Servant” meant I would have to keep laying down myself and my desires for God and for others. And y’all, sometimes that stinks. I know it is good and right but it is hard and seemingly never-ending.

Even so, I came home and put it on A Giving Key to remind myself that is my name and my calling. For the time being at least.

Now I wear it around my neck and know that I am walking in obedience. And try to be thankful that I am loved and I have a purpose. Even if some days I own it begrudgingly.

What is God calling you to in this season?

Has He given you a name?

Do you kind of hate it like I kind of hated mine?