Years ago when I picked up my pup from the pound, I pondered a variety of names for her. I considered aspirational names – what I wanted her to become, cute names, even just fun names to say. I knew I would be repeating it dozens of times each day.
I finally landed on Toviel. Tov in Hebrew means good and El refers to God. Toviel then is “God is good” or “God’s goodness.” Certainly I felt fortunate to have this loving companion, a reflection of God’s goodness. But I had decided I wanted to surround myself with reminders of God’s character. Every time I call her name I am proclaiming the goodness of God. And even when I’m not actively thinking about it, my lips are still proclaiming truth. That’s got to be a good thing!
Her unique name is also is a conversation starter and when asked about it I get to speak truth – God is good. What an easy way for a quick encouragement to a stranger!
There are dozens of ways we can choose to influence our environment – what we think about or listen to. Reminding myself of God’s character through a dog’s name is a small but effective one for me.
What are frequent reminders for you?
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6
Maybe I’ll name my next pup Mercy … who wouldn’t love to be reminded that Mercy follows them through life!
Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8
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