Parenting from the Tree of Life - Article
God-Names
The term identity refers to those characteristics that identify one’s personhood. It is what we become known for. In the truest sense, our identity is what gives public meaning to our name. What is in a name? It is more than a grouping of letters or symbols, that gives us an identification.
The Power of a Name
Mothers and fathers have the privilege of naming their children, thus giving them an identity. However, in this context, we are not speaking of birth names like Alex, Roger, Samantha or Sue, but the subsequent names parents unintentionally give to their children—names that ultimately shape their children’s perception of “self” and thus, their behavior.
How does this happen? Well, have you ever said, even in jest, this one is our:
“messy one,” “stubborn one,” “lazy one,” “jealous one,” “our angry one”
What do such labels do to children? They transfer a negative identity—one children begin to believe, adopt and live out. Such negative, descriptive names become a child’s reality, and he or she believes the lie, “this is just the way I am.”
In contrast, parents can and should speak blessings over their children—yes, even the messy, stubborn, lazy, jealous, or angry child. For example, instead of ”That’s our messy one,” a parent can just as easily say, “That child is going to be our organized one—one day,” (while you work on his messy habits). Instead of “That one is stubborn,” parents can simply say, “She is going to be our cooperative one,” (while you work on her stubbornness). Instead of pointing out laziness in your child, point to his or her capacity for initiative. Instead of labeling children with titles that speak death, parents can just as easily learn to speak blessings over their children. As a Mom or Dad, you must come to recognize and learn to speak your child’s “God-Name.”
What is a God-Name?
A “God-Name” is a title that reflects a child’s principal strength of character that contributes to the shaping of his/her identity. It is the one or more Godly traits that are beginning to emerge and morally distinguish your child.
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