PODCAST
What’s In A Name?
August 26th, 2024
Daniel 1:1-7
Each of us bears a name given by our parents or other caregivers, but also by peers, culture, enemies, and our roles. Take a moment and recall the various names that you have accumulated. What do they say about you? Which ones make you sad? angry? happy? proud?
The four Israelite young men in today’s story experienced what many of us do: When something changes in our circumstances, our location, or the people around us, we come under new influences. This is not, in itself, a bad thing. It’s an important part of “education” (vv. 4-5). Sometimes it raises the question, “Who am I?” Again, this is not in itself a bad thing. Having multiple names can help us examine our identity more closely, to discern what is worth keeping.
Who are the most influential people in your life, and what names have they given you? Which of these best reflects your true identity in God? “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1).
Author: Doug Hardy
