Celebrating the Names of God

Daniel was reading the Bible with his young son, James, who interrupted him after hearing the story of Hagar in Genesis 16:13. In this narrative, Hagar names God, becoming the first person recorded in the Bible to do so. She refers to God as “the God who sees me” after her encounter with Him: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me” (Genesis 16:13, NLT).

James, curious about the names of God, asked his father about them. Daniel explained, “Your name is James, but I call you Jimmy-Jam. Your mom calls you Jamie, and your friends call you Jimmy. You have many names, but you are still the same person.” He continued, “These different names reflect special relationships and signify unique bonds.”

Like James, you might wonder why God has various names and what they mean. Let’s explore a few names of God and the profound meanings they carry.

Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Will Provide

In Genesis 22, Abraham’s faith is tested when God asks him to sacrifice his beloved son. Despite the heart-wrenching request, Abraham obeys, preparing for the journey. As they near the mountain, Isaac innocently asks, “Where is the lamb?” Abraham, not wanting to alarm his son, replies, “God will provide for the offering” (Genesis 22:8).

Just as Abraham is about to sacrifice his son, an angel intervenes, saying, “Don’t lay a hand on the boy! Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son” (Genesis 22:12, NLT). Abraham then sees a ram caught in a bush, which he sacrifices instead. He names God “Jehovah Jireh,” meaning “The Lord Will Provide.”

This name, Jehovah Jireh, highlights God’s provision for our needs, reminding Christians of His faithfulness. When facing financial struggles or life’s challenges, remember that God sees your needs and will provide. Your role is to walk in faith and obedience, trusting that God will supply your needs.

Jehovah Nissi: The Lord Is My Banner

In Exodus 17, the Israelites camped at Rephidim, where God provided for their needs, including water. When the Amalekites prepared to attack, Moses instructed Joshua to lead the soldiers into battle while he prayed with his hands lifted to God. After their victory, Moses built an altar and named it “Yahweh-Nissi,” meaning “The Lord is my banner” (Exodus 17:15, NLT).

In ancient times, a banner served as a rallying point during battles, symbolizing strength and purpose. By calling God “Jehovah Nissi,” Moses declared that God was Israel’s rallying point, their source of strength and courage.

During personal battles, whether praying for a loved one’s recovery or facing life’s challenges, remember that God is your banner. Look to Him for strength and courage, knowing He fights for you.

Jehovah Shalom: The Lord Is Peace

In Judges 6, Gideon secretly threshed wheat to avoid detection by enemies. Amid his fear, an angel greeted him, saying, “Mighty Warrior, the Lord is with you!” (Judges 6:12). Gideon, feeling inadequate and questioning why such suffering had befallen his people, received God’s assurance, “I am with you” (Judges 6:16).

After the encounter, Gideon built an altar and named it “Yahweh-Shalom,” meaning “The Lord is peace” (Judges 6:24, NLT). Despite ongoing challenges, Gideon found peace in God’s presence. This peace is a gift from God, available even in the midst of uncertainty and chaos, reminding us that He is always with us.

Jehovah Sabaoth: The Lord of Hosts

The name “Lord of Hosts,” or “Lord of Heaven’s Armies,” signifies God’s sovereignty over all armies, both spiritual and earthly. David invoked this name when confronting Goliath, declaring, “I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Samuel 17:45).

David, though seemingly unprepared for battle, trusted in the Lord of Hosts, proclaiming victory in God’s name. This name assures us of God’s supreme reign and control over every power. In any battle, whether physical, emotional, mental, or financial, trust that God fights for you.

At the Red Sea, God assured the Israelites through Moses, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:13-14, NLT). Trust in God’s victory, knowing He fights your battles.

The Intimacy of a Name

Special names indicate unique relationships. Just as you might have affectionate names for loved ones, calling God by His special names signifies a deep, personal relationship. These names can be a source of strength and encouragement in challenging times, revealing God’s character and faithfulness.

A Prayer for You…

God, please reveal Yourself to me. Show me a new name of Yours and help me to cling to that name during this season of my life. Thank You for always being exactly what I need. I love you, Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen.