We introduced a new song last week called Jehovah, that helps us to see God's amazing faithfulness to us through the different 'names' He has been given throughout the Old Testament. It's worth just a minute to review and think about the ways that the Lord has revealed Himself to us!
Jehovah Nissi: The LORD is my banner. From when Moses went to the top of the hill and raised his arms to God, as this Israelites battled the Amalekites. When his arms were up in praise to God, the Israelites were winning, when they came down the Amalekites were winning. Israel was victorious, and God instructed Moses to write the experience on a scroll of remembrance. He built an alter there, and called it "Jehovah Nissi." God himself is our banner and victory. He gives us hope and a focus, and is the one who wins our battles.
Jehovah Jireh: The LORD will provide. From when Abraham went up on mount Moriah, at God's command, and showed his willingness to sacrifice his only son as a burn offering, because the LORD told him to. But upon preparing to slay his son, God provided a ram, caught in the thicket, for Abraham to sacrifice as a burnt offering in place of his son Isaac. God provides everything we REALLY need, and is consistent in His mercy and love for all mankind throughout that provision.
Jehovah Rapha: The LORD who heals you. From when Israel went for days without water in the Desert of Shur. They came to a desert oasis called Marah, which had bitter water. The LORD showed Moses a piece of wood that made the water suitable to drink. There the LORD issued a decree, that if the people of Israel would listen to Him, and do what is right in his eyes, He would not bring any of the plagues of Egypt upon them. God is our great physician, who heals his people. Emotional, psychological, and physical healing is available to nations and individuals alike.
Jehovah Shalom: The LORD is peace. This is used many times in the OT, but he first was where the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon. Fearing he would die from seeing the face of the LORD, the Lord said to him, "Peace! Don not be afraid. You are not going to die." So, Gideon built an altar to the LORD there, and called it Jehovah Shalom, the LORD is peace. When it seems like the whole world is against us, we can turn to the God of peace to find comfort and strength.
Blessed be the name of the LORD!