The Power of a Name

The 17th chapter of Genesis is a fascinating Bible chapter, which explains the power of a name. In this most interesting chapter Abram’s name, which means “exalted father,” was changed to Abraham, which means ‘father of many.” Sari, whose name which means “princess,” was childless, would have her name changed to Sarah, who would become a princess with a child. It is important to also note that the son of Abraham (age 100) and Sarah (age 90) would be named Isaac, which means “he laughs,” because Abraham and Sarah laughed at the possibility of having a baby in their elderly years.

The most important name revealed in Genesis 17 is a name that the LORD described himself to Abraham. The Lord said, “I am El-Shaddai-‘God Almighty’” (Genesis 17:1). This is the name that God reveals to Abraham as he gives His amazing promise of a future child. God wanted Abraham and he wants us to understand that He is Almighty and that He can do anything that He chooses to do even if it appears impossible … because nothing is impossible for El-Shaddai!