Text: Genesis 17:1-8
Memory Verse: “No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations” (Genesis 17:5).
After a long toil and suffering comes a breakthrough. One who experiences this could be described as having transitioned into a new phase of life. This transition could involve a change of name. Names vary due to stages of achievement in life. In Isaac’s case, when he decided to dig again the wells earlier dug by his father in the Valley of Gerar, which had been closed up by the Philistines, the Philistines quarrelled with him at the first one, causing him to name it ‘Esek’. He dug another one elsewhere, the same thing happened, and he named it ‘Sitnah’. He proceeded to another
place, but this time, no one quarrelled with him and, so, he named it ‘Rehoboth’, which means ‘room’ (Genesis 26:18-22).
When Abraham was ninety-nine years old, God appeared to him and enjoined him to walk before Him and be blameless. He promised to make a covenant with him and multiply him exceedingly. Not only did God bless him, He changed his name from ‘Abram’ to ‘Abraham’, meaning father of many nations (Genesis 17:5). Likewise, God blessed Sarai his wife and changed her name to
‘Sarah’, meaning ‘mother of nations’ (Genesis 17:15). Many benefits accompany God’s covenant and blessings. Have you been passing through difficult life situations and you are getting drowned? Be assured that God may be preparing you for a change of name and situation. You will have cause to smile again. Remember, God is ever faithful and His mercies endure forever.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, give me a new name that will change my life for the better.
2. Father, let Your grace be sufficient for me.
