What lessons on naming children can be drawn from Exodus 18:3? Exodus 18:3 and the Name Gershom “along with her two sons. One son was named Gershom, for Moses had said, ‘I have been a foreigner in a foreign land.’ ” Observations From the Verse • Moses himself chose the name. • The name Gershom sounds like the Hebrew words for “foreigner there.” • The reason for the name is stated plainly in the text. • The name captures a spiritual testimony of Moses’ life in Midian. Biblical Principles Illustrated • Names may memorialize God’s dealings with a family. – Joshua 24:27 records a stone as a witness; Gershom’s name functions similarly for Moses’ household. • Names can express personal testimony. – Psalm 9:1: “I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart; I will recount all Your wonders.” Placing that testimony in a child’s name embeds it in daily life. • Names acknowledge life seasons under God’s sovereignty. – Ecclesiastes 3:1 stresses appointed times; Moses marks his sojourning season through his son’s name. • Parents bear the God-given right and duty to name their children. – Genesis 5 and Luke 1:59-63 show parents—not priests or community—assigning covenant-rich names. Supporting Scriptural Examples • Genesis 41:51-52—Joseph names Manasseh and Ephraim to testify of God’s work in suffering and blessing. • 1 Samuel 1:20—Hannah names Samuel, “Because I asked the LORD for him.” • Ruth 4:17—The women name Obed, connecting him to future redemption history. • Isaiah 8:3—The prophetic name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz conveys God’s coming judgment. Practical Takeaways for Parents Today • Choose names that proclaim God’s faithfulness or truth you want remembered. • Let the name carry a story your child can grow into and recount to others. • Use the naming moment to testify publicly of God’s work in your family. • Avoid names that contradict biblical values; words matter (Proverbs 18:21). • Keep Scripture central in the selection process—pray, seek counsel, and let the Word guide the meaning you imprint on your child. |
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