From March 16, 2006 
  “ ... I will set Him on High, because He knows and understands my name...” — Psalm 91:14 (AMP)
          As a young nurse working in the labor and delivery unit, I had the privilege of making out the birth certificate with the newborn’s name on it. Before leaving the hospital, every infant would have their specially chosen name penned on that important document holding their lifetime identity.
          Some parents were ready to name the baby the moment it emerged from the womb, but oftentimes, parents labored long and hard over what they wanted to name their child. Sometimes they used unique features such as a family resemblance in hopes to select the perfect name. Other times names were passed down the generations from parents or great-grandparents the couples admired. However they went about it, selecting the right name for that new life was an important task.  
          So what is it that is so significant about a name? Names appear to carry a stigma with them. They seem to reflect who we really are.
           In ancient times, a newborn’s name was selected according to the characteristics their parent’s desired them to possess. Whether they would be strong and viral, or full of grace was depicted by their name. 
          This tradition came from the Old Testament Biblical days when God made Himself known to the early believers through the use of different Hebrew names. These names portray certain aspects about Himself and the things He can provide. The name El Shaddai, reveals that He is the God who Provides; being called Jehovah Rapha, depicts His quality to heal; Jehovah Shalom, represents His provision of Peace. These 3 are among the many names for God you will find threaded through the pages of the Bible.
            Researching the names of God can give us a better understanding of the resources available to us through our loving Creator. Knowledge of God’s names can help us turn away from the destructive forces of sin and set us on the higher road in life. As we meditate on God’s characteristics, we cultivate a trust in His nature to restore and heal, resulting in a renewed life and a closer relationship with Him. 
           
Annettee Budzban is a newspaper religion columnist, and author. Her articles and devotions have also been in many publications such as Guideposts Angels on Earth, Insight, Standard, Family Circle,Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul Daily Inspirations and more. He latest book Inspirations to Restore Your Soul can be ordered through bookstores. You can e-mail her at ahrtwrites2u@aol.com