If you were having trouble sleeping, you might try reading 1 Chronicles. It's a list of names, although these names tell a story of Israel's history. Towards the beginning the name Nimrod is listed. What do you think of when you hear the name Nimrod? I don't think of anyone flattering. The informal dictionary definition is that of a silly person; a simpleton. But that's not the only definition.
When the writer of Chronicles is listing out the names, he spends most of his ink just listing who was born. But when he comes to Nimrod he pauses. He adds a description. "The first great hero on earth." The NIV tells us that Nimrod was a great warrior. Even the dictionary offers that nimrod can refer to one skilled in hunting.
Isn't it funny how names can change over the years? I can remember when I was younger and people would hear my name, they would roll their eyes. You know, on second thought, perhaps my name isn't the best example. But I bet we could all name actors or athletes who at one time were idolized. Then, after a fall from grace, their name becomes synonymous with something less than heroic.
How do you feel about your name? Does it strike fear in the hearts of your enemies? Does it make the opposite sex swoon? Does it make people laugh? No matter, because God has a new name for you. Even before we all get to Heaven, and despite what others think, God has called you child, His child.
No Nimrod would turn down that name.
When the writer of Chronicles is listing out the names, he spends most of his ink just listing who was born. But when he comes to Nimrod he pauses. He adds a description. "The first great hero on earth." The NIV tells us that Nimrod was a great warrior. Even the dictionary offers that nimrod can refer to one skilled in hunting.
Isn't it funny how names can change over the years? I can remember when I was younger and people would hear my name, they would roll their eyes. You know, on second thought, perhaps my name isn't the best example. But I bet we could all name actors or athletes who at one time were idolized. Then, after a fall from grace, their name becomes synonymous with something less than heroic.
How do you feel about your name? Does it strike fear in the hearts of your enemies? Does it make the opposite sex swoon? Does it make people laugh? No matter, because God has a new name for you. Even before we all get to Heaven, and despite what others think, God has called you child, His child.
No Nimrod would turn down that name.
Comments
Whe I was named (70 years ago) my name had connotations of happiness and joyfulness. That was true for many years, as I grew up. Towards the end of my teens the connotations began to change.
While I don't recall ever being concerned or excessively teased about the changes, they are something I cannot avoid. My husbands have not believed the alternatives (two have left this world, the third thanks God for bringing us together.)
I prefer to live life as God, and, I believe, my parents desired, serving Him with joy and hapiness.
Gay