![]() Baby, Darlin’, Sweetheart, Schnookims, Sweet Cheeks? Do you have a favorite pet name for your spouse, significant other, child, or any special person in your life? If so, take a minute and think of the origin of that pet name. Most of the time, it is created through intimacy and affection for the other person. Although sometimes, it is a cutesy way of pointing out a specific characteristic. For example, when my darling husband wants to sweetly enlighten me that my bossy side is coming out, he calls me “Demanda”. Nice, right? However, it is effective, and more than that, it shows he knows me—better than most anyone. We don’t often have pet names for our casual acquaintances, do we? No, we only reserve that kind of energy and creativity for those we truly love (or truly despise). Through Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity to intimately know the Creator of the Universe. We can learn about Him, revere Him, and yes, call Him by name. In the Old Testament, God is only referred to as Father 15 times; in the New Testament, He is referenced as Father 245 times. With the coming of Jesus, the Son drove home the concept of Abba. Romans 8:15 “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” My earthly daddy passed away over 20 years ago, and I can honestly say my relationship with God the Father is turning more into Abba/Daughter every day. For that, I cannot adequately articulate my gratefulness. In the New Testament, God is referred to as Father of Lights, God of Peace, Living God, Majesty, A Consuming Father, King of Nations, God of Glory and God of Comfort, and many many more. Jesus is Beloved Son, Firstborn, Rabbi, Word, Deliverer, Savior, Cornerstone, Door, Vine, God’s Mystery, Alpha and Omega, etc. The Holy Spirit is referred to as a Dove, Seal, Fire, Wind, Water, Breath, Clothing, Helper and Comforter. The list goes on and on. What does God mean to you? Who is He in your life? Think on this. We want to know and be known, and through Jesus we can know and be known. He is going to give us a new name one day. Why? Because He knows us. He sees us. Gut check yourself on this question. Do you know Him? Deep down, don't you want to know Him? If you do, don't accept someone else's talking points or theories. Ask your own questions. I have found that the God who crafted me isn't interested in speed dating casual encounters. He desires intimacy only found in authentic relationship. Please. Hear me. Go there. Here are a couple of resources to explore. The Story Questions And, feel free to comment with your favorite pet name!
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PublisherAmanda Williams is a forty-year old wife and mother of two who can still swing her pony tail and display just a tad of sass. She is also a Jesus loving girl who realizes she is nothing without the One who saved her. Amanda has two degrees specializing in serving students with special needs and is currently working in the field of Leadership Development. She is a Christian author, speaker, blogger, and publisher who loves serving beside her husband at her local place of worship, First Baptist Church of Ocala. |