The following is a post we wrote for https://laurenprezzano.com … it’s our joy to share it here as well.

Hey there, at 1558 Ministries, we are dedicated to uplifting and supporting families who are passionate about ministry. Our name comes from 1 Corinthians 15:58, where Paul reminds us to be “steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord.” We usually share in that space without revealing our names or details about the church we serve in, which got me thinking: “What’s in a name?”

I am embarrassed to admit- I am terrible with names! Yes, even as a former educator and through many years serving in ministry. My husband, however, remembers every name- even those of children he went to Kindergarten with, almost 40 years ago!

This made naming our children rather difficult. I’d suggest a name, and he’d immediately connect it to someone he recalled from the past or knew present day. I lost count of how many times he’d say, “We can’t use that name, so and so has that name already,” or worse, “Not that name! Don’t you remember ________ ? We don’t want to use that name.” I’ve often joked that it’s rather miraculous our children have names at all. Praise God, we didn’t have to resort to numbering them. (haha)

All kidding aside, though, I’m sure you can relate. Haven’t you ever heard a name and immediately pictured someone in your mind’s eye, or maybe thought of something they’d done – good or bad? Perhaps someone’s wise words or the sound of their voice came to you upon hearing a particular moniker?

For example, when I think of Lauren, her thoughtful, graceful words and help as 1558 Ministries was getting started come to my mind. I appreciate her laid-back spirit as we planned towards this day, and am so thankful for her heart to encourage others.

I’d like to share what the Lord revealed to me as I studied the title question, “What’s in a name?”

We should desire a good name, but it is a choice.

While we shouldn’t live simply to please men (Galatians 1:10), giving more concern to their opinions than God’s truth, we must be mindful that we are ambassadors for Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:20) There’s weight to bearing the title, “Christian”. You mark yourself as a representative of Christ. That said, we must remember we don’t just bear our given names, but the name of Jesus. So, the question deepens to: How do people view His name based on ours?

Our deeds are associated with our name.

If you have spent any time at all around children, you know this to be true. But it ought to convict us, the Bible says, “even a child” … that implies they’re included, but the truth applies to everyone. What do our deeds say about us? Moreover, how do they reflect upon our thrice-holy Savior?

Our name is tied to a memory.

Have you ever considered how people will remember you? Not just after the first impression, but when you’re no longer around. Names are tied to legacies. Will you leave a legacy that points people to Jesus?

To have true conviction over this, we must fear, know, and be in awe of the Name above all names. Philippians 2:13 tells us “it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” The desire to choose a good name, deeds that give Him glory, and leave a faithful legacy are not within our own power to achieve. So, Beloved, what will we do today to magnify the precious name of Jesus?

Praying as each of us seeks that answer and His help, the Lord gives the strength to remain steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding. God bless you!