Scripture Focus:
“And it came to pass, as her soul was in departing (for she died), that she called his name
Benoni: but his father called him Benjamin.” Genesis 35:18
Rachel named her son Benoni, meaning “son of my sorrow,” as she drew her last breath. But
Jacob, now walking in obedience, refused to let pain dictate the boy’s destiny. He renamed him
Benjamin, “son of my right hand.” Rachel’s pain was real, but Jacob responded from revelation.
God had just reappeared to him, reconfirming His promises and renaming him Israel. Jacob
held on to that word, even in deep loss.
This is how to walk with God: do not allow pain to speak louder than prophecy. Do not let sorrow
rename what God has already blessed. Rachel named the child from the place of emotion.
Jacob named him from the place of divine vision. When grief surrounds you, be careful what
you say. Your words must align with what God has declared, not with what life throws at you.
Your journey may include tears, but the enemy never has the final say. Speak life, speak God’s
word, speak victory, even in the face of defeat.
Prayer:
Lord, help me hold tightly to Your word in the face of loss. Teach me to speak life, not sorrow.
Amen.
Further Reading: Genesis 35:18–20, Proverbs 18:21, Isaiah 55:11.