I Am, Day 3

I Am, Day 3

The name of God

From Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary

GOD, NAMES OF - the titles or designations given to God throughout the Bible. In the ancient world, knowing anothers name was a special privilege that offered access to that person's thought and life. God favored His people by revealing Himself by several names that offered special insight into His love and righteousness.

Jehovah/Yahweh. One of the most important names for God in the Old Testament is Yahweh, or Jehovah, from the verb "to be, " meaning simply but profoundly, "He Is." His full name is found only in Ex. 3:14 and means "I am who I am" or "I will be who I will be." The four letter Hebrew word YHWH was the name by which God revealed Himself to Moses at the burning bush... God is the author of life and salvation. his "I am" expresses the fact that He is the infinite and original personal God who is behind everything and to whom everything must finally be traced. "I am who I am" signals the truth that nothing else defines who God is but God Himself. What he says and does is who he is. The inspired Scriptures are the infallible guide to understanding who God is by what He says about Himself and what He does. Yahweh is the all powerful and sovereign God who alone defines Himself and establishes truth for his creatures and works for their salvation.

Yahweh is usually translated "LORD" in English versions of the Bible, because it became a practice in the late Old Testament Judaism not to pronounce the sacred name YHWH, but to say instead "my Lord" (Adonai) - a practice still used today in the synagogue.

Here is a list of names that stem from the basic name of Yahweh in the Old Testament. These names honor our Lord.

Jehovah-jireh - "The LORD Will Provide"

Jehovah-nissi - "The LORD Is My Banner"

Jehovah-shalom - "The LORD Is Peace"

Jehovah-shammah - The LORD Is There"

Jehovah-tsebaoth - The LORD of hosts

Jehovah Elohe Yisrael The LORD God of Israel

El - a general word for God

Elohim - A general word for the most supreme God

Branch of Righteousness

King

Wisdom

Shepherd

Servant

Word of God

Glory

There was a portion of this book that I was surprised to read "What he says and does is who he is." I was stumped for a minute. I re-read it a few times and then I came to a realization. Next time I find myself starting my pity party or the "I Am" statements that I so often do, I must remember that what I say and do is who I am. If I am to be like Christ, then I must only say the ultimate truth. Each statement I say about myself defines me. So like it or not, I must be willing to see myself as YHWH does. If I am to accept His sacrifice, I should, too, accept that I am who I am because of Him. He made me who I am today, tomorrow and for eternity. Is there any reason to argue with God? Not after reading Job. I think the wise choice would be to get over my pity party, shout out a verse or two and with my sword and shield, move forward. I see how our "I am" statements can be the death of us before we have finished our purpose here on earth.

I am a child of God. I am forgiven. I am perfect in his sight. (Hebrews 10:14 because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy). Praise God that I am BEING made holy. I am not THE I AM. I am content with knowing that through Him, I am who I am.

Oh, boy, LORD. I did it now. I said something that may encourage others and that may go against everything we have ever received as truth, but was a lie. I know in these times, Satan seeks the weak. So give us strength to believe that we are yours and that we are being made holy. Help us not to define ourselves with statements that do not reflect your love and mercy in which we have received. Help us to see ourselves as you created us to be. I am praying, LORD, that this message has given someone hope, has empowered others to stop believing lies and to start knowing the truth. Will you be glorified through this devotional today. Thank you for using me to teach and learn at the same time. It was an amazing experience and I look forward to each new day with you. Amen.

Please continue to pray for Chloe F. this week. Also, please pray for Shannon and Jonathon's marriage and for successful business agreement for Jay. Thank you.