A “namesake” is one who has the same name as another or is named after another person. When someone knows another in the family is being named after them, they may wonder whether or not the name will be given honor. Time will tell as the “namesake” begins to grow and move on through life’s journey.
In the beloved twenty-third psalm, among David’s focuses on his cherished relationship with his Great Shepherd, he stated. . .
“(3) He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3 ESV)
What marks the path on which I walk? What does the pathway I am following convey to those around me? It is for my benefit and the sake of my life to walk the right path. However, David noted being led in paths of righteousness as being for the sake of his Shepherd’s name. My following on His righteous path is a reflection on Him and His Name! My life journey is to be traveled to uphold His reputation. I must remember Whose sheep I am and what my life is revealing to others about my Shepherd. As I share my Shepherd’s name, regardless of the varied experiences on life’s pathway, as I follow Him, I must remain mindful of glorifying God in that name. (1 Peter 4:16) All that He does for me is to the glory of His Name and as I accept and follow, in that too His Name is to be glorified. Therefore, having been brought under His tender loving care by His grace, may I not disgrace His Name as I remain following on the righteous path in which He leads!
Have a great day FOLLOWING FOR HIS NAME’S SAKE!
Carl
