102 of 365 - God with Us

His name shall be called… Isaiah 9:6
 
How did you get your name? Did your parents like the sound of it? Are you named after a family member, friend, favorite character? 
 
Names are personal and special, but they were even more significant in the Jewish culture, and they matter to God. He knows us all by name.
 
Sometimes in the Bible, God changes people’s names to reflect their new identity or purpose. When Jacob wrestles with God, his name is changed to Israel, meaning “God contended; wrestled with God; Triumphant with God” (Genesis 32:22-32). When we get to the New Testament, we’ll see Jesus change one of His disciple’s name from Simon to Peter, meaning “rock” (John 1:42, Matthew 16:13-19).
 
The name given to the infant Jesus was also very significant and part of prophecy being fulfilled. An angel appears to Joseph and instructs him what to name this child to be born…
 
“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’(which means, God with us).” Matthew 1:21-23
 
Jesus’ name tells us who He was and would be…GOD WITH US.
 
This prophecy in Isaiah tells us some other names that will describe the Messiah...what His identity will be…what He will be to those who believe in Him and live under His rule in His kingdom: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
 
Questions: How did you get your name? Do a quick Google search to see the meaning of your name. Does it fit you? If you could name yourself anything based on its meaning, what would it be?