The other day, I was discussing with my precious daughters when the younger one asked; “Daddy, can someone name their baby Zebulun?” While trying to wrap my mind around that name, I asked her; “Why did you ask, and who’s Zebulun?” She responded; “It’s the name of one of Jacob’s children.” I had to go check the meaning of that name.
Friend, names are prophetic. This is why God does not name us according to our circumstances, but according to our destiny (Genesis 17:5, 1 Samuel 4:21). There is a destiny that God has ordained for you to fulfil. This is not ‘fate’ as many people will call it. It is the predetermined plans, purposes, and pathways that God has ordained that your life will fulfil. It is the good and peaceful thoughts of God towards you (Jeremiah 29:11).
Your existence on earth is a response to what God had in mind originally before you were born (Jeremiah 1:4-5, Revelations 4:11). You were born on purpose and for purpose. However, there are circumstances that show up that try to negate the purpose of your existence. Most times, people name you based on your circumstances or history, but God names you according to your destiny (Luke 1:59-64).
Jabez was named after the circumstance of his birth (pain) even though he was supposed to be more honourable than his brethren and was also supposed to be a city builder (1 Chronicles 2:55,4:9-10). Ichabod was named after the circumstance of Israel at his birth. Israel had just lost a battle, but that does not mean that the glory had departed from the young baby who had not even started life (1 Samuel 4:19-21).
What do people call you? Is it according to your circumstances or according to your destiny? The fact that you failed English language examination seven (7) times does not mean that you are not supposed to be a professor of the English language (Proverbs 24:16). The fact that you are still believing God for a baby since you got married does not mean that you are barren; because none shall be barren in the land (Exodus 23:26, Isaiah 54:1, Luke 1:36).
I want you to start answering to what God calls you and not what men or circumstances have called you. Discover what God has written concerning you and enforce it in your circumstances. Like Jabez, refuse to be named after the circumstance of your birth. Call on the God of Israel (the God of change) and start fulfilling your original destiny (1 Chronicles 4:10).
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria