In the book of Genesis, God gives new names to three people.
In doing so, God is effectively saying, I’m giving you a new identity. You may see yourself according to your old name, but I see you differently. I’m giving you a new name and a new future.
Abram becomes Abraham
Sarai becomes Sarah
Jacob becomes Israel
The Amplified Bible tells us the meaning for five of these names:
Abram means “high, exalted father,” whereas Abraham means “father of a multitude” (Genesis 17:5).
The meaning of Sarai is not given, but Sarah means “Princess” (Genesis 17:15).
Jacob means “supplanter” (one who usurps or replaces another), whereas Israel means “contender with God” (Genesis 32:28).
Would you like God to give you a new name? Just ask.
