My friend and mentor, Moira, let me borrow the book Hinds’ Feet on High Places last year. “This book is going to make you trust Jesus more,” she said.
I was skeptical. I held her well-worn copy of the allegory in my hands, a watercolor illustration of a deer on the purple cover. How could a story about a fearful, crippled animal move me toward trusting Jesus more?
“Sometimes you remind me of little Much-Afraid,” Moira said softly. “Just give this book a chance. Read it, but read it slowly.”
I was in my final year of college when Moira lent it to me. Aside from being slightly offended that I reminded her of someone called “Much-Afraid,” I was far too busy reading textbooks and writing papers to have time for a classic book.
It sat on my bedside table for months.
And then, one day, something shifted within me. I was knee-deep in my college classes — focused on getting good grades and figuring out a five-year plan. I had no clue what my life was supposed to look like or where I was supposed to go.
I remembered Moira’s words: This book is going to make you trust Jesus more.
“Okay, God,” I prayed. “In the Bible, You spoke through a talking donkey. Of course, You can speak to me through an allegory about a deer. Help me to trust You more.”
I picked up Hinds’ Feet on High Places, thumbing through the old pages, smiling at the stars and underlines Moira had penciled into the margins. I started to read.
As I read, I was shocked by how strongly I identified with Much-Afraid. The Shepherd was so kind to her. Tears stung my eyes, and I longed to be spoken to the way the Shepherd spoke to little Much-Afraid. She saw herself as crippled and ugly, and yet He saw her potential.
“ . . . there is another thing I must tell you. Not only would I have to make your feet like hinds’ feet, but you would have to receive another name, for it would be as impossible for a Much-Afraid to enter the Kingdom of Love . . . Are you willing to be changed completely, Much-Afraid, and to be made like the new name which you will receive if you become a citizen in the Kingdom of Love?”
She nodded her head and then said very earnestly, “Yes, I am.”
As the Shepherd said this, he looked at her very steadily, and she realized that his eyes were searching into the very depths of her heart and knew all that was there far better than she did herself. She did not answer for a long time, because she was not sure what to say, but she looked rather flinchingly into the eyes which were gazing at her so penetratingly and became aware that they had the power of reflecting what they looked upon.
I wondered what my Shepherd would rename me. Who did I see myself as? Someone afraid of the future? Someone who didn’t trust the plans Jesus had for me?
And yet, how does the Shepherd see me? I imagine much like the way the Shepherd saw Much-Afraid.
“He knew her through and through, in all the intricate labyrinth of her lonely heart, better far than she knew herself. No one understood better than he, that growing into the likeness of a new name is a long process, but he did not say this. He looked with a certain tender pity and compassion at the glowing cheeks and shining eyes which had so suddenly transformed the appearance of plain little Much-Afraid.”
As I read Hinds’ Feet on High Places, I came to understand that Moira was right. It did make me trust Jesus more. I fell in love with my Shepherd even deeper, coming to understand His love in a way I hadn’t before. I came to trust that He is good, regardless of how hard the journey might seem — both my journey and Much-Afraid’s.
I took Moira’s copy of Hinds’ Feet on High Places to work the day after I finished it. I went up to my best friend’s desk and put Moira’s well-worn allegory into Sarah’s hands.
“You need to read this,” I said to Sarah. And then, I told her the exact same words Moira had told me. “This book is going to make you trust Jesus more.”
This classic story by Hannah Hurnard is now available in an all-new beautifully illustrated edition from Tyndale House, and it features:
* charming watercolor paintings
* antique-tinted photography
* hand-lettered Scripture verses
* space for journaling and visual self-expression
It’s an absolutely beautiful, unique version of a much-loved book – perfect for gift-giving!
Click here to order your copy today!
With that in mind, our friends at Tyndale want to give one to FIVE lucky winners! To enter to win a copy of Hinds’ Feet on High Places, leave a comment telling us what you think the Shepherd would rename you. We will choose five winners at random and contact them via email. Contest is open until 11:59 pm central time on December 15th, 2018. Open to U.S. residents only.
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Brave Because She is Loved -BB for short!
I have never heard of this book but it sounds incredibly lovely.
Loves with hands and feet.
One day this book will find me.
My name might be Inconsistent Faith. One day I’m full of faith & the next I’m “ye of little faith “
Mine would be “Scaredy Cat to Fearless Warrior” I pray so!
I am aspiring to my heaven name Submissively Abiding in Him.
Wow, great question.
I think He would call me Blessed-By-Family because my family is the gift I didn’t have enough sense or optimism to pray for, and yet He has piled on this lovely blessing.
I want to add, ” It is about time!” I know He has a great sense of humor……..after all he almost had to hit me over the head with a 2×4. But, it was in LOVE instead. He is so good to me.
I hope He will rename me “Held-and-Secure.”
Hope to be able to be called Trusting-Daughter
I’ve never heard of this book but it sounds pretty amazing!
I think He would re name me Rooted in love.
I’m no longer a wonderer!
“Always Held” because sometimes the future seems so uncertain and I need to remember I am always held by Him.
She Who Hesitates. I almost always hold steady for a while at a pause that comes right before making the leap to trust. Almost. Always. I’d really like to change that.
Blessed-by-Grace because I messed up my first marriage, but God is a God of second chances, and He has blessed me with a beautiful family and precious grandchildren, and the assurance of His love and forgiveness.
Beautiful, Gail. xx
I think perhaps He would rename me Secure in Christ because I’ve sought security too many other ways over the years and His security is all I really needed and will ever need.
Timid Lamb because I’m always on the cusp of making some great change and then get thrown back down again. I haven’t read this in a great while. Thanks for the opportunity to win and for letting us know about this. It most definitely is a book that changed me!
I think He would call me Brave, because He desires me to be Brave and not so afraid of the risks He wants me to undertake.
Blessings and Peace
Agape
This was such a beautiful reminder to look past what I currently see in myself -just okay, getting by, not worth God’s time; to see that He does love me just as a shepherd does for his flock. I am not exactly sure what he would rename me, but I hope that one day I will know for sure. Maybe Enough? Maybe Daughter of the Most High? Maybe simply, Special One?
Enough about me though. I really want to win a copy of this book for my dear friend, Kristian. Kristian grew up knowing who God was, her parents spoke of God; however, she never felt good enough for God. She saw herself as “too messed up” for God to love her. I truly believe this book will help her to see her true value & to come running home into the Arma of her Savior.
Even if I don’t win a copy of this book, I totally understand the demand & the conditions, I would still greatly appreciate prayer for Kristian. She is such a great & caring person; however, she still doesn’t see it. I think this would be a great way to open up the door for Christ to speak specifically to her.
Thank you again for posting this. Your words have comforted me.
I pray many blessings & gratitude is expressed to you through this post.
-your reader, Renee.
I hope he would rename me “peaceful and strong”
I think He would call me Brave, as He desire me to be Brave and not so afraid and hesitant in the things is know He wants me to undertake.
Blessings and Peace
Agape
Free indeed!
Like this!!
Bev xx
God would lovingly rename me “Just Wait and See”.
“I am enough because He is”
Unshakeable.
Yes! That’s exactly what this book does! This book gave my teenage self a vision of Life in the Spirit. So precious. Maybe I’d be Gently Kind.
I read this book years ago and it did help me to trust Jesus more. After many years, I think I need to read it again. Strong one would be my new name.
Thank you Aliza for the beautiful reminder to reread this awesome book.
I am more encouraged to see young people as yourself following our Lord and Saviour , Jesus Christ.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
Love and blessings, Maggie
Perhaps, Always Loved. 🙂 This book sounds awesome!
I am already longing to read this book, right now I am in a place where I need to trust God more than ever before and its just hard to even focus on HIM.
I am believing in the God of Hannah, He did it in Shiloh and can do it again today.
I hope He will name me RuHamah – having obtained mercy.
Maybe from much afraid to radiant of Him
Beloved – because he loves me, he holds me in his treasure pouch!
Cherished
Beloved and Known
I think He would call me Cherished. I’ve been a Christian for a very long time, but I’ve struggled with grasping God’s unconditional love for me.
I would like to be renamed “Chosen”. I would love to have this book to read and pass around. Thank you! Beautiful words.
Lovelier- because I was lovely before but he has made me completely lovelier from the inside out.
Never heard of this book but plan to read it! I think my new name would have to be True Redemption. God is so merciful and good!
Fully Loved Messenger of Mercy
This is a question I’ve never asked myself. I hope God would call meEncourager. That’s where I feel led. I’ve heard of the book but never read it. It’s time now to do so.
I think Jesus would rename me
“Believing Child”
It has taken me awhile to completely trust .
My earthly father left before I was born, I never knew a daddy.
It was hard for me to believe that someone like Jesus could be my daddy when in fact I had never had a earthly dad.
I am now a believer, my heavenly father, my Abba daddy , has always been there, I just had to believe and trust.
I believe He would call me Sunshine. I am/was the sunshine in my parents lives. Having all boys my Mom had me late in her life and she finally received her girl. I often find that I am other peoples’ sunshine in this dark world because I have the love and light from God that I share. Even my sunshine can be dimmed by this world sometimes. I am thankful for a loving God to help stand by me and give me strength, confidence and His love. This book touches my heart as I have been through several traumatic events in my life and the human in me wonders what God has in store for my future. I want to trust Him and believe things will get better. One day at a time…
I’m not really sure. I feel like I need to think about it for the day…but my first instinct would be “courage under difficult circumstances”. That’s a mouthful, so I’ll continue to ponder this. I can’t wait to read this book & see all the illustrations.
I love this book! New name: Brave One
I believe He would name me Much-Loved. Anything good in me comes from Him as a result of His undeserved, overwhelming love. My identity needs to find its footing in that, I believe.
My friend told me to read Hinds’ Feet a few years ago and, like you, I didn’t think I would enjoy it. I’m grateful for that friend and I’m grateful for that book. Both have changed me.
Overcomer because I have overcome many challenges in my lifetime
Loved
“By Grace Alone” because His grace has helped me in all my trials. This sounds like a wonderful book to read!
I believe he is changing my name to Healed- Heart. I have lived with a broken, fearful heart for the past few years, and this past year has drawn me closer to Him as He works to heal the hurt. I would love to win a copy of Hinds’ Feet on High Places.
Brave Beloved
I have always loved this book. It was given to me when I was a new believer but it still speaks to my heart, I think He would name me Content, at least at this point in my life
He would name me Blooming Tree.
I loved this book when I read it years ago. I had forgotten about it but will pick it up again after the new year begins. I hope He would rename me Walking Faithfully.
I think He would call me Much-Loved because I am so loved by Him❣
Grateful and Thankful!!!!
That is how I strive to live my life, but fall short everyday. Because of His Amazing Grace we begin afresh every morning!!!
Would love to receive and read this classic book. Thank you!!
I’ve heard of this book, but never had the chance to read it. Now it’s on my wish list for sure. Trusting the Lord is something I am trying to learn as this season of life has me feeling like a tiny rowboat in the middle of a giant storm at sea. I hope to be called Peace, because His Peace is what calms the storm.
Known and Loved!
Kind and patient one. Because no matter the circumstances i am always kind and patient.
This feels like such an invitation from Him!
I’m wanting my new name and longing to live from it.
Beautiful and Wanted.
I would like to be renamed trusting and seeking.
He would name me “Lovely” because I am lovely and loved by Him.
The new name He has given me is “Chosen Loved Sought After,” corresponding with the letters of my initials, CLS. It has been a sweet journey as, in different seasons of my life, He has focused one aspect of that name and taught me a deeper understanding of what each word means. Perhaps the most transforming was when I identified that I believed the lie that I was unloveable, and using a rock, a dock, and Jeremiah 31:3 to tell me that I am already loved with an everlasting love. Our Shepherd is so kind!
The Shepherd would rename me Fully-Known- and-Fully-Loved.
I think He would rename me Secretly Brave because I keep my bravery hidden, sometimes even from myself, but He knows it’s there because He placed inside me.
I too read this in college, 45 years ago and recall the impact it had on me! My copy is long gone. Would love a new, illustrated version to share with my grandchildren who are huge readers! Thank you for sharing about this book. It brought back sweet memories
what would be my new name? He’s already told me this in scripture…but I need to internalize it and remember it always…Beloved…no matter how I feel or what I think, my heart will whisper “Beloved…you are my beloved…”
I think the Shepherd would rename me Redeemed. I know I am not worthy, often it is hard to fathom. What perfect gift of love!
Aliza,
This reminds me of the trail across the street from my home where I like to go for walks with the dogs, and my kids over the years. It’s peaceful, and beautiful with the evergreens, and the creek that runs through, but yet it can also be scary. There’s always a chance that you’ll run in to a cougar or a bear, so when we make it through unharmed I am always ever so grateful. But isn’t that the way life is, at times it’s scary but when we trust in the Lord we can over come our fear. Thank-you for sharing this book, while it’s visually stunning, it also sounds like it can help make a difference……….
(As a Canadian I don’t qualify for the draw but just wanted to share).
I hope that you all have a blessed day,
Penny
Prayerfully perseverant. Much of my nearly forty five years of marriage has been a struggle. But God has been faithful to continue to heal and restore. My dad gave me this book early in my marriage and much like Aliza I was young and arrogant and didn’t really take the time to read it. I remember thumbing through it a couple of times but never diving in. I have no idea where that book is now, perhaps someone with more wisdom is read it and God changed their name. Aliza’s story touched my heart this morning. I think women tend toward anxiety & fear, particularly in regard to loved ones. Especially their children.
Hope’s Trust. I am a worrier and carry a lot of unnecessary stress on myself daily. This book looks wonderful! I thought of my college age daughter right away for this too.
I resonate with this story of Much Afraid and am deeply touched reading the excerpt of the Shepard looking deeply into her eyes, into her soul with such love, knowing her more intimately than she knows herself. How I long to feel the Father do that for me. As I reflect on a life that brings some heartache, grievances, brokenness, and regret, I asked the Lord “what would you rename me?” And He said, “Free.” Free to love. Free to let go of the past. Of shame and embarrassment. Free to be joyful. Free of comparison. Free from what keeps me in bondage, thinking I’m not as good as everyone else. Free to be me and live the life He has given me. “Free.”
Mustard Seed…I am planting a seed of new faith in the midst of pain.
Encourager would perhaps be my new name, but that was a really hard question to answer.
Omg I loved this book will order copies. This book helped me face fear. To know just how much God loves us and is always I mean always with us. There is just no reason to fear.
Present- as in always available, listening, aware in the present moment.
I think I read that story the first time when I was in or fresh out of college as well. It was so profound!
My new name would be Peace-Filled. I’m still learning how to live it.
Beloved and Blessed. He loves and blesses me more than I can ever fathom! Oh, to remember that more.
Maybe I would be Keep Moving Forward, toward Him.
Broken Whole. Because I am working on it!
“Much-Faith”
God gave me a new name about 12 years ago, but I am confused about how I will ever live up to it? It seems I am further away from it now then when he spoke it. The worst part for me is I don’t understand what my part is and what Gods part is? You know the grace verses works thing! It has divided my family for generations and my own heart also?! The name he gave me is “Comforted, joyfulness, overcoming one, faithfulness, Friend of God, one who seeks my face”! I know it’s a long name but He knows how much of a verbal person I am! Lol But none of those words are me at all except One who seeks His Face. I am broken and would love to read this book, and I do have a us address.
She is able! Because by the grace of God, I can do all that He calls me to do with a love only He can bestow!! He is my rock and my shield!
Maybe He would be name me Hope – in Hebrew it’s Tikvah. My hope is in Him and He is faithful.
Sounds like a beautifully written and inspired book! He would name Cherished One.
He would call me beautiful beloved daughter; the very greatest words He could call me. ❤
I think he would name me “Always Searching for Meaning”. I’m always trying to be mindful of the lesson that may be in the struggle.
Mine, I think He shall call me by this name. Since the very first time He called me, I knew who He was and I knew I belonged to Him. I had belonged to men before but He promised a new love, a new way of loving in my time and even before I was in time. It sounds complicated but it’s not. It’s the Shepherd ❤
My Mother gave this book to me as a young awkward teenager. The verbal illustration of the love of the Shepherd for the weak fearful deer has never left my memories. Thank you for the reminder of it. I plan on reading it again with my daughter. “Daughter of the King” is my new name. I guess that makes me a princess.
Precious!
Beloved Mother
I hope that the Shepherd would bless me with the new name of Loved-Accepted-Safe & Secure
as these are the very gifts I am trusting Him for.
I pray that this would be my new name because I would finally have come to the place that I honestly & truly fully believe & receive these gifts from Him & trust in Him always & forever. Amen!
I’ve heard of this book but never read it…sounds like I need to! I’m definitely in a season of learning to trust the Lord more when my desires and His plan seem to be out of sync. I think the name for myself that I need to remember most often is Beloved, choosing to find rest in that rather than struggling with fear and anxiety.
I think He would re-name me Lovely. I do not see myself this way but know He does.
Washed.
Quiet but faithful
Surrendered
I’ve heard of this book, but like the writer, I haven’t made time for it. I’ll have to change that!
I’ve wondered sometimes what Jesus would name me, and I still don’t know, but one thing Jesus has been teaching me is that, despite my failures, I’m covered in His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10). So, for right now, I really like the sound of Covered. 🙂
This was my favorite book as a teen. I read my Grandma’s old paperback. Would love for this beautiful copy to find its way back to my hands.
The chosen one because all of my family is not saved, I’m the only one that broke a tradition in my home. But I see how God uses me every day to minister to my parents and siblings and he’s taught me to show them grace and love just as He gives it to me each and every day. Would love this book!
My all-time favorite, apart from Scripture . I have given so many copies of this book away because it changed me. He calls me Redeemed Beloved, Jesus loved me enough to redeem me from all my fears. Would love an illustrated copy. Now to order one since I recently gave my copy away.
Wow, sounds like a great story that we all could benefit from rewarding. I think the Shepherd would rename me , “ Hope” as I’ve lived with a life altering illness since 2005 and was told then I would only be here 3-5 years, well his Hope is what gets me through, almost “14”years later ….
Maybe “Given Over” bc after nearly 3 decades of believing, I’ve finally given myself over to His hands.
Beloved
Humbly Hopeful (Double H)
Faithful
I’d love to be ‘happy and relaxed in his Love”.
I would want my Shepherd to name me Filled with Joy.
My name would be Worthy Daughter because I’ve felt unworthy far too long.
He would rename me Faith.
~Grateful for grace~ This book had been on my “need to read” list for awhile.
The Shepherd would name me Beautifully Brave!!
I think He would rename me “Walks by Faith” because if I can come to trust that He really is good (something I know in my head, but that my heart doubts at times) then I could more constantly walk by faith.
Forever Loved…..loved always, unconditionally, by a wonderful, kind, loving Father!
Peace
Adding to my “Must Read” list!
Thank you!
Simple Servant
Thank you for sharing this story with a new generation. A friend gave me a copy 40 years ago. I sense the Shepherd would name me “Precious.”
Contented one! I’m ever trying for contentment in all ways!
He would call me Song of Joy, because that is what my name means.
Countless times I’ve said to myself, “but I’m nobody” when suddenly the Lord’s Holy Spirit whispers to me, “You’re mine.” I always imagine I have an invisible mark over me that says, “The Lord’s”. If I was to have a name, I want it to be “The Lord’s” because I am His and only His.
My transformation has been from “Life with Boundaries” to “Grace and Free”. It is incredible to have seen this come through my email today, as I am JUST finishing this very book. It has been an amazing book, so true, so beautiful in its allegory. All of nature sings of Christ’s praise and speaks about his True Nature. I LOVE how Hannah, the writer, points us to His Majesty through creation. Powerful. There may be others who need the book, but I would love a copy of the book to share with others. I am inclined to buy one for every girlfriend I have this Christmas. Thank you for sharing this book today.
Grace and Healed. I just love this book. I have read it many times, especially during my hard times with my illness.
His heart… because he loves me beyond what I ever could’ve thought, imagined and express with my words. Because He shows me, speaks into, and reminds my very heart and mind how wide, how deep a nbn d eternal his love is. But most of all why came down from the comforts of heaven, in the form of man to sacrifice for me, for us and show us his heart for me, for us. And because his love overwhelms me with such beauty, gentleness and patience in this journey with him that makes me to just fall deeper and deeper in love with him, wanting to know his heart in ways I never imagined, and all he’s done and continues to do in and through me, that that’s why he would call me His Heart❣
I would love to win this book! I’m not sure what my name would be, maybe something like Learn to Rest or Good Heart? I’m trying to learn these things anyway.
Thank you for this beautiful devotion Aliza.
My name would be Kept. That says it all.
I am His delight!
I have never read this book, but I want to know! I’m thinking my new name could be Fearlessly- Brave.
This book looks lovely, and I’m intrigued by the message. Hard to think of my name. I have been seeking him to mend my heart. I wish I made better progress. Some lifelong hurts seem impossible to heal. I hope my new name would be Mended Heart, or maybe No Longer Weary.
“He is my strength”
Just reading all these new names….wouldn’t it be great if we all lived and walked under our “New Creation” names?? I’d either be “Walks in Freedom” or “Knows Whose She Is”….they both fit. Love this post Aliza!!
Blessings,
Bev….Ummm, I mean Walks in Freedom & Knows Whose She Is
xo
I would live to read this book !!
I hope the shepherd would rename me
She chooses Joy !!
Many Blessings
Faith restored -the last 2 years have been hurtful, heartbreaking and tough but I have leaned on Gods faithfulness in my weakness.
I think he would name me forgiven and loved!
Love this book! Read it many years ago as a teen and again as an adult, and learned new things each time! It really did help me trust Jesus more! My name would be Restored Heart.
The Shepherd would call me “Overcomer” because he constantly calls me to overcome self doubt about who I am and what I have to offer. He constantly moves me to overcome past hurts through forgiveness. He nudges me to overcome judgemental thoughts and criticisms of others through submission to His word and obedience to His spirit. Yes Overcomer. I am one because He lives in me. The Ultimate Overcomer.
Beauty in Chaos. Because as a stay at home mom of 3 girls..that’s what our life is on a daily basis ha
I would be much afraid as well.
Oh this book is so good. God did give me a new name, and it is “beauty.” I believed I was broken and ugly inside. He gave me a new name, and He’s showing me more and more every day what it means.
Royal Diadem
I hope He would call me Faithful!
I long to hear him call me “good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:23
He’s renamed me “Warrior Bride.” I was once a “Much Afraid,” but my Good Sheppherd has set my feet on higher ground. I teach people how to walk with Jesus on this amazing journey of transformation.
I would love to have this special, beautiful copy of Hinds Feet in High Places to use as visual resource to encourage others to read it.
I’d hope he’d rename me Child of Light, although Much-Afraid is very fitting some days. Adding this book to my reading list!
Beloved
I feel as though mine would change from “Hollow” to “ Complete” though I’m not certain…
I would say He may name me “live…and learn” as He wants me to live life, not live in fear. One other name could be “hesed” which among definitions is loyal love, what He has had for me since the beginning of time and what I want my life to be for Him. Thank you for the wonderful reminder of this book and message. Karen
Confident; because He hasn’t given me this over the past year. To be bold and courageous to speak truth to those I love.
Worthy
Beloved…He already named me.
My Instagram name is @hindsfeet_journey.
I also have a very worn copy of the book, but would love the new copy.
Beloved, because that is what I have always felt in the palm of His hand. No matter the storm or celebration, I have always felt the nearness of my Father. Thankful to be called His.
Much dismayed! =) Keep being dismayed by more suffering, but trying to keep the faith strong!
Daughter of The King
He will call me “you are loved” no matter what.
Years ago, I was talking to God and made the statement that I wanted to be seen as an “elegant lady”. I felt as though I had made so many mistakes in my life that my past looked like anything but an elegant lady. I looked up the word ‘elegant’ and one of the meanings is graceful. The elegant lady I wanted to be was graceful—full of the grace that He had extended to me and extend it to others. Soon after I had talked with God about that, I was in a church service, and we had a special speaker from South Africa. I had not told anyone about my talk with God. At some point during the service, the speaker pointed to me and said, “God wants you to know that you are an “elegant lady”. He’s so personal, and I love that.
Beautiful Daughter
Aliza, I have wanted to read this book for a long time, and your sweet words sealed the deal. And this new edition looks amazing! I think God would name me Great Delight — as a reminder that He is the source of my delight and that He takes great delight in me.
I pray my NEW name will be ENDURED♡
Thanks for the oportunity!! 🙂
I love this book, read it each year to my 5th graders! I believe He would rename me, my child of sacrificial faith.
Finally Surrendered by faith not sight
He’d name me “one-step-at-a-time”. Because that is how He has gotten me thru the last 2 years and 5 months since my husband went ahead of me to Heaven. He has done great things!
Oh I love this book. I found it as an adult and your article reminds me to make it my Christmas break read! THANK YOU!!!!
Much Loved
Saved by Grace
I would love a chance to win!!
I will most likely order a copy later on! If not for me to share, it sounds like an amazing book! I haven’t even heard of it!! Thanks for letting us know about it that didn’t before! And reminding those that do know about it!
Contented, reminding me that I can only find that in Him.
I would hope my new name would be Grace-Rester. Instead of constantly trying to “be” and “do,” I realize the freedom I have to rest in God’s grace.
Still. My verses lately have been all the ones that have “Be still”. Its like he has put that stamp on me to wait.
From Much Afraid to Acceptance
Acceptance of myself, my choices and acceptance of others.
Scared or Over-thinker.
Many years ago during a women’s retreat I buried the word, Afraid at the foot of the cross. I didn’t know at the time but my fear was keeping me from falling in love with my Heavenly Father. Recently, I have been living through terrible heartbreak and very scary situations. My baby died and 11 months later my husband suffered a stroke. Through this I’ve had to parent a 4 year old through these tough times and put my grief aside. I believe and looking back I can see the amazing mercies. I’m fighting for my joy and I believe through it all I’m not forgotten. I’m realizing how stressful our situations were and I honestly don’t think I would have been able to be lead had I still be clinging to Afraid. I’m not sure what He would name me but maybe something like, Trust.
Daughter loved by the King
I’ve heard so many great things about this book. I think my name would be release. I just have such a struggle with letting go and releasing control over to God. I can just picture myself with my head back and arms out, handing everything over to God. Oh sweet release!
My name would be “woman of courage” because I’m about to step out in faith and interview for a new job with less pay and no benefits for 1 year but I’m considering it because I am a breast cancer survivor and I know God didn’t save my life in order for me to stay in a job that’s unfulfilling and live a life of discontentment. I need to share the miracle of my healing and I can’t do that where I am now.
Aliza,
Great post. Yes. The book does help us trust God more. My new name might be brave helper & encourager. I love helping & encouraging people. He might say beautiful daughter of the King!! Would love to read this book. I find myself like much-afraid a lot of the time. We just have to trust that God knows us better than we know ourselves!!
Blessings –B H & E or D of the K! 🙂
I have loved the book Hind’s Feet on High Places since I first read it in high school having discovered it at a Christian bookstore. My copy is very tattered. I would love a new one! This year God has repeatedly reminded me that He doesn’t love me because of my accomplishments (Good thing!). He loves me because He loves me. I think my new name would be Enough-in-Christ.
He is my Hope. So pleased to see this book re – circulating. It will bless many
Drowning but Hopeful
I feel like I’m being pulled down by the many things of my life, but I keep my eyes on the Lord and remain hopeful that He reach out His hand to me.
“Be-Still,” because I have reached a season in my life where I am retiring, after living a crazy chaotic busy, busy, busy life. I have so many things I have put off doing, like reading, exercising, spending time with husband, devotions, prayer, Bible reading. But sometimes I don’t feel like doing anything. I just feel like resting. I feel if I trusted God more, he would rename me Be-Still, so that I would know that it is okay to just rest. Maybe it is okay for me to just be still and rest in Him.
Daughter of grace. Sounds like a great book!
I’m not really sure:) Thank you for this post, I love that verse and I struggle with fear and doubt
The Shepherd would name me Much Loved.
He would rename me “Desired” to prove to my heart a truth that my past & current circumstances have fought hard to bury. If He could truly convince me that I am Desired/Desirable, tons of chains would break from my hands and feet and I would soar in my real identity.
Aliza,
I thought you were reading my story. I am very much like that–much afraid. And nowadays are a season of Gpd’s special training in “Trust” for me. I am learning, really, really learning. I praise God for this article you wrote-and thank you. I would love to have a copy of that book, I will try to find one here in the Philippines. Again, thanks–great devotion for a much afraid me. So I think God calls me ” Much Afraid But Trusts Anyway”.
— Knel
I believe my name would be Praise Girl because I always want to give Him praise. He is so good and faithful.
The Shepherd would name me something like kind helper. That’s what I feel He is calling me to be. Thanks for a chance to win this book.
Obedient daughter. He sees me as I will be, but for me it is still a daily journey of continual learning and leaning on Him. But even I can see the growth that is happening within.
Creative because I Hes blessed me with a creative gift. This book sounds amazing and I can think of many others to share it with 🙂
Fully Surrendered
My new name is Hephzibah (Isaiah 62:4), which means, “My delight is in her.”
Beautiful post. I haven’t read this book in a long time and needed this post tonight.
Peaceful warrior. I have a lot of things to do but I can get nothing done when I’m spinning and hustling for worth. I must find peace and rest and centeredness with my savior. Then I’m able to do the work of justice in the kingdom.
Thanks
I think he would call me Thankfully Blessed. I am so thankful for all He has blessed me with. A wonderful husband and daughter. A great church family…. I could go on and on. I know that without His love and if not for His great sacrifice none of it would be possible.
Aliza,
I thought you were reading my story. I am very much like that–much afraid. And nowadays are a season of God’s special training in “Trust” for me. I am learning, really, really learning. I praise God for this article you wrote-and thank you. I would love to have a copy of that book, I will try to find one here in the Philippines. Again, thanks–great devotion for a much afraid me. So I think God calls me ” Much Afraid But Trusts Anyway”.
— Knel
The Shepherd would rename me “always grateful” because He has taught me that the greatest way to combat negativity and fear is with gratitude.
I think my name would be trusting wanderer. I pray that I can always trust God as I wander through this life.
I don’t know why I have never really seen that Beloved is, in fact, “Be Loved”. I feel this is what God would name me, for I am slowly, slowly learning to be loved by a good good Father.
He’d rename me, ‘True’
Fearless and Faithful
Strong Gardel
I think He would rename me Gentle Bird.
Strong & Solid would be my desire.
Loved
He would call me encourager
Mine would be joy and courage. God took a pessimistic scaredy-cat and helped me to have joy for circumstances and courage to face people.
I think he would name me Quiet-One because I’ve always listened more than I’ve talked and I’m more introverted than extroverted.
Beloved
I am really just fully learning this. My head knew it but not my heart. When I read how much God loves ME, it brings tears to my eyes.
I received a new name the day I accepted Christ as my personal Savior!! I am redeemed… I’m almost ashamed to say that I’ve never read this classic, but that will be changing. I will be purchasing a copy today for me! If I win a copy, then it will be a gift to someone else to help them. Thank you!
Wow so many wonderful new names for so many sisters of God! I think my name would be Joyfully Hope!
My delight-is-in-her.
Chosen – when I feel unworthy His sacrifice reminds me He says I am❤️
Fearless – because I am safe if Jesus here on earth or in heaven!
My savior would rename me Faithful/in the dark.
He sees my struggles and watches me take one step at a time. Determined to remain faithful to him and his word.
I think he would call me Timid Shepherd. I take care of my sheep but often I need to be bolder and stronger.
Thank you for this post. Just as I “found” this post, I’m sure I will read this book. I am hungering for myself to trust more… so of course I need to see how much He knows me and loves me. I’d live a copy!
The Shepherd would name me DD (Doubting Diana). Thank you for sharing. I can’t wait to read it and share with several friends.
From “Much Afraid”to “Fully Trusting”
Going to buy this book!!
Based on all that He has revealed to me in the last year, I believe my name would be Not Settling For Less Any Longer!
Strong Defender – I’ve struggled with health and some earthly frustration this year. But, in the heavenlies, we’re still making good time, I am trying to trust!
Loved and Accepted, because I know I am in Christ.
I’m not sure what He’d pick, but I’d like to be made into a “Joyful Truster”. I want to see God in all circumstances and trust Him to know best and find my joy in that.
I love this book!
I feel like this book would rename me because I too am Much Afraid. For all that I say and encourage others not to fear, to trust in the Lord, I still find myself fearing the future and experiencing so much uncertainty about what it holds for me and the family I am building and growing. Some weeks it seems like every day there is a voice nagging me about whether that family will ever even get built. I’ve come to great understandings about the Lord through allegorical stories like this in the past, and just the few paragraphs that you shared with us here touched my heart and I said to myself “I need to read this.” And then immediately thought of a friend who needs it too.
No matter the outcome of the giveaway, I will be picking up a couple copies of this book, just as soon as I have the means!
I believe the Lord would rename me Free-Worshipper. I thank God everyday that His Love entered my life and freed me from the bondage of sin! He freed me!
I hope He would name me Grace. They older I get the more amazed ,astounded I am to be the recipient of his undeserving and amazing Grace …
Fierce and gentle. Love this book and was so encouraged by this challenge to dream about what Jesus would rename me.
Miranda, it means worthy of adoration. I have struggled with self worth my whole life and God gave me this new name years ago however I never felt it was mine but just last week I said it’s time I start going by the name He has given me!!
Never-Alone. I have struggled with anxiety and depression throughout my life and I used to feel so alone and fearful, but God has shown me that even though I felt alone He was there the whole time. I just had to step out in faith to realize it. xoxo
I first need to say WOW! Look at how many beautiful daughters & mothers & sisters want to trust Jesus more!! <3 I've been considering it and my brain refused to think any more words after I hit this phrase, so I think my new man name would be Unceasing Warrior.
I love the phrase "pray without ceasing" in I Thessalonians 5:16-18 and am inspired to live like that. Warrior is so unlike my personality–I'm the peacemaker. But our Lord keeps showing me that warriors aren't all berserkers. Some warriors are all but silent, but they move swiftly and powerfully when they receive orders.
Beloved. I read this book a few years ago and afterwards started writing in my journal-for my own sake-the story of Beloved and The Shepherd. I wanted to view myself as God views me, as His Beloved.
I think my name would be Lacking Faith.
I think Jesus would Rename me “The rescued one whom I love. “
As I read this, sitting on a a bus on my way to work yesterday, I was caught off guard by the huge lump in my throat and tears welling in my eyes when I got to your question. I could think of so many current names that describe how I see myself, many similar to Much Afraid. Thinking of how difficult it is for me to love myself and accept that others genuinely love me, I can imagine my Creator renaming me “Be Loved.” He would be reminding me to fully accept the love of special people He has put in my life and that I am His Beloved.
Stronger walk every day.
I’ve seen many confirmations of God naming me, “Beloved”. I have not read the book yet, and would like to. I’ve heard a lot about it but just have never read it. I am sure I relate well to much afraid. Even at 49 years old.
I think He would rename me Steadfast Heart. I would no longer be Tumultuous and Tossed.
Thank you for the chance at this beautiful book.❤️
Beloved and Brave One… oh how I long to feel brave! ❤
My rename, I believe, is Princess Warrior.
Beloved daughter. To Him, that has been my name all along, even though I fail to live up to it.
Sacrificial Strength “most of the time”!!!
This is hard for me… I think maybe He would rename me Bold and Brave and Brilliant… I would hope for any one of those.
I’d like to think he’d rename me The Giver. Whether it’s advice, a helping hand, things someone needs or just time, I find that I’m always in some state of giving.
Redeemed Daughter… But for His gracious redemption I am an orphaned wretch!
This book say in my shelf for years after I got saved in college. I would start it and never complete it.. Feeling too much like Much Afraid herself, not ready to take the long walk with the Savior to find freedom from there comfort of Craven Fear.
To God be the all the Glory that when I still am much afraid I am reminded that I have been purchased by a Redeemer!
Your Sister,
Jennifer
Worthy
The praying one. The only way I can trust and move ahead is to pray.
I would hope my name would be Persistent in Caring, but might be more like Persistent in Always Caring and Always Worring. I’m working on it though as I help my daughter work through worries.
Beloved
Dearly Loved Daughter because it’s His love and connection I need most.
“She who rewrites my words”
Gracefully loved.
I relate to this article so much! I received this book from a mentor per se when I was in 7th grade. I gave my life to Christ not long before that and my parents just separated. I did not have much of a faith at that point nor really care too much about growing it. This mentor of mine randomly gave me this book and said the same line “This may help you know who Jesus is.” I remember reading it with her and learning more truth about my God. To this day, I still have the book and look at questions I wrote in it and her responses. She had been one the women who helped me find my calling as a youth director for my church with the help of that very book. And of course, the fellowship she gave.
Cherished One
Fearless Belonging
I don’t know what He’d rename me but I hope someday I can be brave enough to see me how He does.
Joyfully Sufficient because although I never feel like “enough “ I know my strength is in Jesus.
Don’t fret so, Little One – I can churn up a good deal of fret over the smallest things. God is slowly changing me, but there is a very big decision in our future that I don’t want to have to make. God will guide us, though, with His sweet spirit.
Fully Loved and Known.
I have never read the book, sounds like I need to. Right now my name might be Little Scared.
I loved your blog today. I shared on my Facebook. I hadn’t done it for a longtime. I couldn’t resist your short but effective message. Hugs
Marinalva
I loved your message and I shared it at my Facebook. I hadn’t done it for a longtime. I could not resist. Hugs