1-15-2022           The Sardis/Philadelphia Effect

            

John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day when he heard a voice which sounded like a trumpet.  And the voice said “I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, write in a book what you see and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia …” (Rev. 1:10-11).  John saw one like the Son of man in the midst of seven golden candlesticks.  He was dressed down to His feet and wore a golden girdle about His chest.  The hairs of his head were like wool and white as snow and His eyes were like the flame of a fire. His feet were like fine brass burned in the furnace and His voice sounded like many waters.  He held seven stars in His right hand and a sharp, two-edged sword proceeded out of His mouth and His countenance (appearance) was very bright and shining (like the noonday sun).  And He said “Fear not, I am the first and the last.  I am He that lives and that was dead.  Behold, I am alive forever more, Amen.  And I have the keys of hell and death…” (Rev. 1:12-18).

John notes the encouragement given the first four churches (Rev. 2:1-29), but also the shortcomings for each.  The seventh church is reprimanded for being lukewarm but is also given a remedy for its condition (Rev. 3:14-18.

Let’s personalize the last two churches, Sardis and Philadelphia. 

Apparently Sardis (the 5^th church) was starting to falter.  They looked like they were alive but inside they were dying (spiritually).  They weren’t doing the works they could or should (expressing God’s love) so they needed to be watchful so they didn’t lose what they did have.  We need to remember our original commitment to our Lord (our salvation experience) and hold on, tightly, and if we have faltered, don’t lose what we have left.   But then, start rebuilding, drawing closer to our Lord.  We need to recognize our shortcomings and repent.  That is confess, repent and renounce, getting back on the right track and into proper alignment with Father.  For we should have made the decision to follow Jesus – again.  Then, as I said, continue growing towards Him.

The church may have gotten too comfortable and perhaps neglecting our relationship with the Lord (remember, I’m personalizing this).  We need to remember that when Jesus returns for us, He comes as a thief in the night, we don’t know the day nor the hour (1 Thess. 5:2).  There are those of us who have not forsaken Jesus so let us continue to walk with Him.  Because we have endured the enticements of the world (the enemy) so we shall be clothed in white, which reflects the purity of Jesus (and us), and because we have overcome the world, our names shall remain in the book of life and Jesus will confess us before the angels. (Rev. 3:1-6).  Also, because of our perseverance, we shall receive a crown of life (Rev. 2:10) as we reap the benefits of eternal fellowship with the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen?

To the church of Philadelphia (the 6th church), this is He who is holy, true, who has the keys of David so He can open that which no man can shut or shut that which no man can open.  He knows all that we’ve done.  He has opened doors before us which no man can shut for we still have ‘some’ strength and are still keeping His Word and have not denied His name.  There are those who have seemed to be a part of the ‘church’, but have lied or those who have stood against our Lord, He will humble them before us and they will know that the living God (Creator of all things) has loved us.  Why?  Because we have kept His Word and endured hardships for His Name’s sake.  It is the Lord God who has kept us from the temptation which comes upon the world and which tries the hearts of all men.  The Lord bids us to come quickly and tightly hold on to that which He has given us so that no one may take our crown (of glory).  Those who overcome the enemy, He will make pillars in the temple of God and we shall no longer leave His presence.   He will write His name and the name of His city (which comes down from heaven) upon us and give us a new name (Rev. 3:7-13)

To be like the faithful of Philadelphia should be our goal.  That is, to keep God’s law in our heart and mind and to live in His love, here in this world.  As we do, He will help us resist our enemy and stand fast in the ways He (Jesus) has taught us.  As we do, our names remain in God’s (the Lamb’s) Book of Life (Phil. 4:3, Rev. 3:5, Rev. 21:27).  We will abide in/with Jesus, bathed in the glory of God, forever!

Even the Jews know that God has loved us with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3).  They also know the first and great commandment is to love God (Exod. 20:1-11, Luke 10:25-28). Jesus reminds us (in case we missed it) when He answers the question and expands our responsibility with not just loving God, but our neighbor as well (Matt.22:36-40, Mark 12:29-31).

Today’s passages remind me of the parable of the sower, how some seed fell by the wayside, some among thorns or on stony ground but other good ground.  Again, for us, the wayside, the Word never takes hold in our lives, in one ear and quickly out the other.  There is no commitment to God, on our part.  The stony ground and thorns reflect people who receive Jesus and come into the church.  However, one is not diligent to increase their heart to grow and improve their relationship with Father, (Rom. 12:2) and the other gets too wrapped up in the cares of this world he forgets who God is (Mark 4:18-19).  Both of these are in serious danger of walking away from God and losing what they do have (eternal security) despite having professed Jesus.  AND they are yet “in” the church.  And of course the good ground are those who cling to Jesus, learn to live in His love and let the world see the love of God working in our lives.  We develop a true relationship with our Lord and maintain it.

Not all who profess Jesus will enter into eternity.  They will say “Haven’t we done all these wonderful things in your name?”  They did these things for their own glory and never really took the time to get ‘to know’ Jesus.  So how does Jesus respond?  “I never knew you.  Depart from me, you who work iniquity.”

The church of Sardis is encouraged to strengthen their faith and make sure the life is up to God’s standard – living in love).  That is, basically, encouraged to get to “know” Jesus – personally and up close.  Because Philadelphia has done the best job of the seven, there is a lot of promises of things to come and encouragement to stay on track. 

Should we not follow the positive example of the “Sardis/Philadelphia Effect”?

Amen

 

1/1/2022  New Beginnings

 

In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth.  The earth was without form and void and darkness was upon the face of the deep and the Spirit of God moved upon the waters.  Then God said “Let there be …” (Gen. 1:1-3)

January 1^st is the first day of the first month of a new year.  God began creating all things on the first, the first day of creation.  A new beginning for all things! 

At the end of six “days”, all things were good (Gen. 1:31). 

God is before anything was formed, everlasting to everlasting (Psalm 90:2).  The Hebrew word used for everlasting is olawm (H5769) which is eternal, everlasting, always was (hidden parameters or unknown to us) (H5956).  He always was, is, and always will be.  We also need to remember that a day with the Lord is “as” a thousand years (2 Peter 3:8, Psalm 90:4).  ‘Yom’ (H3117) the Hebrew word for day, can mean a day (sunrise to sunset) or represent a non-specific amount of time.  The Greek word ‘Hos’ (G5613) is a comparative word, not saying that it is but is “like”.  Man, on the other hand, has a beginning (Gen. 1:26-28) and because of Adam and Eve being disobedient to the Word of the Lord we have an end “…and to dust you shall return (Gen. 3:1-19).  Because we are temporal, finite (have a beginning and an end) and God is infinite (no beginning, no end).  Who can truly say how long a day is with God.

I mention this to put things in perspective.  Man was created an eternal being, but through disobedience was given so many years to live on earth.  We know early man lived long.  Adam was 930 years old when he died (Gen. 5:5).  Presumably that was after he was booted out of Eden.  Noah live 950 years including the flood time (Gen. 9:29) and Methuselah lived 969 (Gen. 5: 27).  Moses lived 120 years (Deut. 34:7).  David became king of Israel at age 30 (2 Sam. 5:4) and died after reigning forty years (1 Chron. 29:28), so he was seventy years old when He died.  A whole lot less than Adam or Methuselah.  Basically, the farther man got from Eden, the shorter the lifespan. 

Unfortunately, man kept bouncing in and out of his relationship with Father Until God decided it was time make His appearance through Jesus. 

Jesus ushered in another “new beginning”.  Not only was He getting Israel (His 1^st love) back on the right track, but He was opening the door for the Gentiles to join in with eternal life so all would have the opportunity of life. 

Think about it. In the beginning, man lived in the blessings of God but, by and large, rejected that relationship.  Here, Jesus is again offering man the blessings of the Father, though He was going to Israel first.  Why?  Israel was originally intended to be God’s example of His love to the world, but, as a whole, they couldn’t keep their act together.  So through Jesus, Father was offering them that opportunity again (if you will).  Though the first Christians were Jews, too many rejected Him.  So the door was also now opened to the Gentiles.

Jesus offered eternal life to all who would receive Him and follow His lead.  His example.  Live in His love!  Now, understand any of those who sought and loved the Lord, (even before Jesus) were given the opportunity for life.

The new beginnings in the “New Testament” the disciples weren’t just bringing people into the “Way” (Jesus’) but helping them to live in the “Way”.  The Way?  Abiding in the love of Jesus Christ.  Learning how to love our brothers AND our neighbors.  The Jews knew ‘what to do’ and too many felt that ‘knowing’ was sufficient but knowing isn’t necessarily putting it into practice, nor does ‘just’ knowing get us into heaven.  Read the gospels.  Therein are the examples.

Jesus focused on faith and then putting that faith into action.  How many times did Jesus say “believe and you shall receive.” (Mark 11:24)  How many times did Jesus say “Just believe” (1 Thess. 2:13)?  The centurion believed Jesus could heal his servant just by speaking the word – even though they weren’t at his house (Matt. 8:5-10).  Jesus told the scribes and Pharisees that they knew what to do, but their hearts were far from Him (Matt. 23:27-31).  The ‘religious’ of the Jews put on a good show but they only desired to better themselves!

Living in God’s love was not new.  Read Hebrews chapter eleven – God’s “hall of faith”.

So Jesus started a movement intended to draw people closer to Father.  To reconnect in a relationship Adam and Eve enjoyed in the beginning.  He could do this because Jesus IS Emmanuel, God is with us (Matt. 1:23).  His whole ministry was built on building that relationship with the Creator of all things.  Christianity was to be the ‘new’ banner carrier for eternal salvation.  Christianity was to show the world how to love as God loves.      

But, alas.  Just as the Jews, the Christian church eventually became ‘comfortable’ in what we had.  Somewhere between those early disciples and today, we’ve lost the fire, not for evangelism but for establishing new converts so that their house is built upon the rock – and not sinking sand (Matt. 7:24-27)’.  PTL!  (Praise The Lord), Over the centuries, Christians have become comfortable in their ‘sand castles   But what did they do after the salvation experience?  Did they get those ‘new souls’ into a grounded church where they could get nurtured in the love of God and grow strong, knowledgeable and faithful?  How many took the time to nurture any of these new souls, themselves?  How many churches are truly equipped to get souls off on the right foot?  Read some church history.  Over the years, some kings who “got saved” commanded that their subjects do likewise.  Not a personal relationship but personal obedience to the king’s decree.  There were a number of reasons why souls didn’t get grounded in Christ over the centuries.

Paul reminds us that we should do that which edifies the church (1 Corinth. 14:26).  Paul had to remind the Corinthians to always speak the truth in love that we may grow more Christ-like.  We are all members of one body (Christ is our head), building each other up in love that all might be edified.  We learn to put off those things we used to do and be renewed in the spirit of our mind.  Put on the new man, growing in righteousness and holiness (Eph. 4:15-32) and be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving one another.  After all, Christ has forgiven us!  Right?

Look at the church today!  Has the church become a series of ‘closed’ social clubs?  Where is the focus?  Getting bodies into the church so we can boast about how ‘big’ our church is?  So we can brag about how much money we bring in?  So we can show off all the programs we have?  Look at us!  Ain’t we great?  Don’t get me wrong.  There’s nothing wrong with programs, people like to feel involved; offerings, there are expenses in operating a church; and a full church is necessary to the other two to work!  As long as souls are being nurtured and growing in God’s love, we are on the right track.  That’s “agape” love.  Doing things because they are the right thing to do. Doing things to help others whether we get recognized or not.  Doing things because we ‘really’ care about the growth in others. 

Just like the Jews of 2000 years ago, today’s church – despite the good things it does – has fallen off the track.  And just like the Jews, it’s because our hearts have wandered off.  Oooh!  Those mega-churches are doing everything right!  Those poor, ‘little’ churches should be doing better, where their …..?

Whether we realize it or not, Father has just closed out a ‘training period’ for His people.  That is, He has been raising up a cadre of Godly men and women who have, or still are learning to abide in God’s love.  Brothers and sisters who will be going out just as the early disciples did.  Not just winning souls for Christ, but helping them to live ‘in’ Him and not just ‘for’ Him. 

Jan. 1, 2015 began that seven year training period for those servants and now we are entering a second seven year period where what Father has been teaching will be put to use.  This “Spiritual Explosion” will be growing over the next several years moving into full bloom by mid-term of this season.

If we have been watching, parts of Africa and Asia have already seen early rumblings of the explosion and over the next several years it will spread out world-wide.  Have you been listening?  Many evangelists, prophets and ministers have also been talking about the “revival” here in the US.   All of Africa and Asia, along with Europe, the Americas and Australia will also be impacted. 

Will all these places become Christian over-night.  Sadly no, but the impact of God’s movement will be felt and the world will know God has and is moving!

This season we are just starting isn’t “just” a revival.  Father is going to impact lives, perhaps, as never before.  Jesus promised the disciples that they would to the works He did and greater (John 14:12).  I’m not sure exactly what different we can do other than heal the sick, raise the dead and cast out devils, but we can be rest assured there will be more of it.  Africa is an indication.

Will everyone give their heart to Jesus.  Jesus knows it won’t be so.  It wasn’t true in His day and even today, too many people are stuck in their own ruts.  Some will hear the word and it will go in one ear and out the other.  Because of a sand based foundation, some will endure for a while, but when trouble comes (and it will) they will turn away.  Others will get so wrapped up in their own thing, they will forget what Father has done for them and slip back into the ways of the world.  But Father is raising up those who will help those who truly desire Him to stand fast and resist anything and everything the enemy throws at them and stay true to our heavenly Father. (Matt. 13:1-23).

Who will be like the woman who would settle even for the crumbs falling from the master’s table (Matt. 15:22-28).  And yet I tell you that God’s sons and daughters will not have to settle for the crumbs.  Who will be like the Centurion who felt he was not worthy that Jesus should come to his home.  All Jesus would have to do is say the word and the soldier’s servant would be healed (Matt. 8:5-10)!

Jesus (and His early disciples) impressed upon us that as we believe, we will receive.  If we knock, the door will be opened (Matt. 7:7-8) and the indwelling Holy Ghost (John 14:17) will guide us and help us to say what is needed to be said (Luke 12:11-12).

Some reading this will come to realize that everyone has a part to take in this explosion.  Some bigger than others, but even if our ministry is ‘just’ one other person, we all have a part.

Who will be ready and willing to take part in this Spiritual Explosion?  Father will certainly enable us.

Amen

 

 

12-18-2021      MERRY CHRISTMAS

May the Lord bless you this holiday season as we remember the  birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ into this world. 

May you discover the joy, the peace and love of God, our Father, and let them abide your heart.  May the Lord keep you safe during this season.  Praise His name a He opens new doors for you to discover preparing you to walk, even if just, a little closer with Him.

During this time, may we all remember that God the Father (Himself) came into this world in the Son (Jesus) to show us how His love works. 

God created all thing by first envisioning what He wanted, then He brought it into existence by speaking His Word.  Then the Holy Ghost carried that word into action (over the waters).  If God so created the world, is it any surprise that He could produce a child through a virgin woman?

Jesus then began (approximately) a 33 ½ year journey (including childhood and adolescence) helping us to understand the extent of Father’s love.

At the end of His walk, Jesus expressed the greatest love of all – that one gives his life for his friend.  And He did.  On the cross, shedding blood which was required for the cleansing from sin.

This Christmas season, we celebrate the beginning of His walk in “our shoes”.

Please enjoy these few Christmas carols from utube, thanking Him for His love.

 

“Hark the Herald Angels Sing”      Paul Baloche

“O Little Town of Bethlehem          Gaither Vocal Band

“The First Noel”                                Boney M

“Silent Night”                                    Hillsong

      

 

12-4-2021 Name of God “El…”

The names of God

El (H410)

Can reference any god.  But normally references the “Almighty God” and is often used in compound with more descriptive words as with our following examples.

El (ale) is the Hebrew word meaning God, power, strong.  The implication is something much greater than ourselves.  When capitalized, it clearly references the Creator of all things.     

Elohim (Elohiym) (H430)

God is creator, powerful and mighty, Lord of lords. He is the Lord Most High, stronger and mightier than anyone or anything else. When we face impossible circumstances or adversaries, know that our God is stronger.

(Gen. 1:1, 17:7, Ps 19:1 Jer. 31:33)

Elohiym (e lo heem) means exceeding, supreme god, great and is the plural of “elowahh.  As we see it, references the Creator of all things.  This form is plural because Father, Son and Holy Spirit are three aspects of the same God.  WE can’t separate Him. 

El-Elyon (H5945)

The most high God. Do not fear the enemy who tries to intimidate us. Know that our God is the Most High God. There is none above Him. Jesus Christ is exalted high above every name.

(Genesis 14:17-20, Deuteronomy 26:19, Isaiah 14:13-14)

El-elyon (El yown) means “most high” thus in compound with “El” the meaning is drawn out to be “the most high God” and there is none (nothing) greater than Him.

El-Gibhor (H1368)

Mighty God. The Lord is mighty to save. His arm is not too short. Whatever problem we are facing, know that our God is El-Gibhor, the MIGHTY and He can and does overcome!

(Isaiah 9:6)

Gibbor (ghib bore) means powerful as in champion, chief or giant, mighty, strong.  God is a “mighty God”!  He is greater than and can overcome anything we face.

El-Olam (5769)

The everlasting God. God is eternal, while our problems are temporary. His love will never change. His promises are true. Build on Him, who is eternal and do not focus on our temporary situations. He will show us His great and eternal goodness.

(Isaiah 40:28-31)

Olam (0 lawm) means continuing, eternal, without end.  When all our problems have ended, God still is!  He outlasts anything and everything.  When the smoke clears, He is the last one standing.

El-Roiy (H7210)

The strong one who sees. When we feel lonely and abandoned by people, know that God is with us. He sees us and He knows us. He hears the cry of our heart and He loves us more than we can imagine.  He will lead us through situations and fill our heart with His praise.

(Genesis 16:13)

Roiy (roe e) means vision, look to, see.  He sees what’s ahead.  He sees it all so He can always appropriately direct us.  We just have to listen.

El-Shaddai-Rohi (H7706, H7210)

God Almighty, the mighty One of Jacob. God is not just another ‘god’ like the countless idols. He truly is the Almighty Creator of heaven and earth.

Gen. 17:1, 49:24, Ps. 91:1, 132:2, 5)

Shaddai rohi (shad da ee, roe ee) means Almighty who gets things done because He sees and knows all things and He does all that which is right.  His Word will not come back void. 

El-Chuwl (H2342)

The God who gave birth. God is our Creator and our Father. He saw us and He loved us, even before we were born. He has a plan for our lives and as we walk with Him, He will fulfill His dreams over our life and amaze us.

(Psalm 139:13-18)

Chuwl (khool) means travail, bring things to pass with great effort.  He imagined all that is then brought it into existence.  He spoke the word and the Holy Ghost brought it into being.  And so, here we are, even now. 

El-Deah (H1844)

God of knowledge. Wisdom comes from the Lord. Man tries to become wise apart from God, but ends up in foolishness. When we fear God and keep His commandments, to love Him and one another, we will know Him as He is and His wisdom will guide us.

(1 Samuel 2:3; Romans 11:33-36; 1 Cor. 1:18-31)

Deah (day aw) means knowledge.  May be expressed as “Dea” (H1843 – day ah).  He knows all things, how can He go wrong?  The respect of knowing who God is, is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge.

Attiyq Youm (H6268, H3117)  

The Ancient of Days. God is eternal. He was before the beginning of time. Therefor He has all authority. Every knee bows before Him.

(Daniel 7:9, 13, 14, Rev. 1:11, 17-18)

Attiyq (at teek) ancient and youm (yome) day, sunrise to sunset.  Together they mean “Ancient of Days”.  He is “Alpha and Omega”, “the beginning and the end”, “from everlasting to everlasting”.  Genesis tells us that in the beginning God … (Gen. 1:1).  

Adonay (H136)

Is a name used to reference only the true, living God.  It is derived from “adon” (H113) which is sovereign, lord, master or owner and can be used in reference to either human or divine entity. It appears in compound with other words as “adoni”.

(Judges 16:28, 2Sam. 7:28, 29)

Adonay (ad o noy) which means “Lord”.  This can be a title of position (for us humans) but when used to address our heavenly Father, it addresses His sovereignty over all things.  Traditionally  used only in reference to God, the Father.

Savior (H3467, G4990)

More than once, God reminds man that He is our savior.  Mary rejoiced in God, her savior as she and her cousin Elisabeth greeted each other.  Gabriel had already announced to Mary that her first born would be named Emmanuel (God is with us) and she called her first born “Jesus” (Savior).  His disciples acknowledged Jesus as Savior.  Jesus, himself, told people that He and he Father are one.

Isaiah 60:16, Luke 1:41-47, Matthew 1:23-25, Luke 19:10, 2Timothy 1:10, John 10:30).

Savior (H3467 – yasha – yawshaw) means deliver, defend, bring salvation and savior (G4990 – soter – so tare) deliverer, God, Christ.  God tells Isaiah “You shall know that I the Lord am your Savior”.  Jesus has come to seek and save that which is lost.  That makes Him savior.  Both being considered “savior” defines a oneness which cannot be broken.

Of course, we know Jesus as “Christ”.  Christos (G5447 – krist os) means Messiah.  Its root word is “chrio (G5548 – kree oh) which means t anoint (with oil).  Jesus IS the anointed one and through salvation, He anoints us into His kingdom.

In our first listing of “Names of God” we explored “Jehovah” and the qualities that spring from that name and here, we explored “El” which is the root of even more qualities (characteristics) of God.

As we explore the bible, we will find more and more qualities and characteristics of God that reveal His very essence and presence.  His love for us.

However, the two lists give us a pretty good foundation in how our heavenly Father interacts with us.  He knows us – even before we are born.  He cares about what happens to us.  He helps us to learn to do that which helps us live this life a whole lot better (when we listen - lol).  It’s really simple!  All He asks of us is to believe and trust in Him, then do as He directs us for that which He tells us IS for our own benefit (Rom. 8:26-29).

WE haven’t explained exactly how He works in us and through us, but consider what IS here. 

Father is called “Father” for a reason.  Until we reach full maturity in Christ Jesus, we ARE ALL His “kids”.  Understand, I tell my children that they are always my children no matter how old they get.  We are God’s children, even when we are in eternity with Him, no matter how mature we think we are.  Mature?  How many of us actually live “exactly” as Jesus lived while He was on this earth?  How many of us think as Jesus did?  How many of us truly love as Jesus loved?  How many of us forgive as Jesus forgave?  We may reach certain levels of ‘maturity’ but how many of us are true reflection of Jesus as Jesus was (and is) the reflection of Father.  He is our example to follow.  Philip told Jesus that they all would be ‘happy campers’ if Jesus would just show them the Father.  What did Jesus say?  “… he who has seen Me has seen the Father … (John 14:9)”  How many of us are that kind of reflection?  It should be our goal, but who has truly reached it?

Learn (even) these names of God and understand how they operate with us, in us and through us and we will walk a little closer with Father, through Jesus, than we had been before.  And remember, the Holy Ghost is in us giving us the strength and the power to live this life.

Amen

 

11-20-2021         Names of God

         

We’ve seen how the “Essence of Love” impacts, or should impact our lives.  We stated that understanding the names by which God, the Father, is known can help us with that understanding.  The qualities and/or characteristics of God can give insight into who He truly is and why we can be assured that He always has our best interests at heart.

We are going to take a look at the name YHWH or YAHWEH or Jehova.  The four letters, read from right to left, are “yodh, he, waw”.  My understanding is the “Jehovah” wasn’t actually used until the 1901 American Standard Bible.  And at that, I understand, may have been a mispronunciation of “Yahweh”.  Nonetheless, that’s the name we are most familiar with today.   

Welcome to the first installment on the names of God.

YHWH with no vowels is how the Hebrews originally expressed the name of God and according to multiple resources, God’s name was considered to be too holy to be spoken aloud.  I guess that when God told Moses not to take the” Lord’s name” in vain (Exod. 20:7) it might have been easier to not speak His name at all rather than take a chance of messing it up.

Over this and the next two posts, we’re going to look at three group listing of the names of God.  The first is YHWH (Jehovah), the second will be derivatives from “El”, and the third will be qualities of who God is and not necessarily ‘names’ by which He is known.  I’ve used two primary resources for this presentation, http://www.godisreal.today/names-of-god/, http://www.navigators.org.Tools/Discipleship%20Resources/Tools/.  And, of course, I’ve added my comments.  I listed several resources for the ‘name of God’ in “Essence of Love, pt. 3” which you may also refer to.

 Let’s take a look at the Yahweh, or Jehovah, based designations of God

Jehovah (Yahweh) [Jeh ho vaw]

The self-existent One. He has always existed and will always exist. You can always rely on Him because He is our eternal source of strength.  He is the only self-complete, independent being – I AM THAT I AM.  All name references are according to Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance.

Scriptural references: (Genesis 1:1-2, 2:4; Exodus 3:13-15 [1-22]; Exodus 6:1-4; Psalm 83:18; Isaiah 12:2)

Jehovah (H3068), scripturally, is used only in the Old Testament.  It is the traditional name of God (Storng’s) which is described as self-existent or eternal.  God identifies Himself as ‘The Alpha and Omega’, the first and the last, He who lived and was dead and lives for evermore (Rev. 1:11, 1:18)

In brief, God has always existed and will always exist.  We know, in Genesis chapter one, He created all that is (Gen. 1:1-31). 

   Jehovah-Maccaddeshem [… mac cad deshem]

The Lord our sanctifier. He forgives our sins and His Holy Spirit works in our lives to become like He is: pure, loving and true.  He is separate from all that is evil.

(Exodus 31:13, Leviticus 20:7-8; Ezekiel 37:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:23)

Father sanctifies us or makes us holy, clean or pure so we will be ready when Jesus either calls us home or comes for us in the last days.

Jehovah-Rohi [… row hee]

The Lord our shepherd. He cares for us, the way a shepherd tends his sheep. He cares for us and leads us to still waters and green pastures.

(Psalm 23:1-6, 80:1, 95:7; Isaiah 40:11; Jeremiah 31:10; Ezekiel 34:12; John 10:11)

The shepherd knows His sheep.  He feeds them, guides them and even helps them rest when they need it.  through “Spiritual” guidance, we also learn how to live life.  The sheep learn and know their shepherd’s voice.  Do we know the voice of Jesus?  Are we obedient to that voice?

Jehovah-Shammah [… shawm maw]

The Lord who is present. He never leaves us, nor forsakes us. He is with us forever. Our best friend, who never betrays us.

(Genesis 28:15; Psalm 23:4, 46:1, 139:7-12; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Ezekiel 48:35; Amos 5:14; Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)

The Lord is always with us (H3074) and will never leave us nor forsake us.  We may not always realize Father’s presence, but remember, the Holy Ghost is with us and in us (John 14:17) so He IS always with us. 

Jehovah-Rapha [… rah fu]

The Lord our healer. “By His stripes were are healed” declares the Bible. Jesus Christ died to give us life. Not only was God the healer in the Old Testament, but Jesus Christ revealed the healing heart of God for all of us, more than ever.

(Exodus 15:26; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalm 6:2, 41:4, 103:3, 147:3; Isaiah 19:22, 57:18-19; Jeremiah 3:22, 17:14, 30:17; Matthew 8:5-7; Luke 4:18)

 Jesus tells us to love Father with all our heart, mind, soul and strength (Mark 14:30) and believe that we receive (Mark 11:24) and we shall receive healing and more.  Jesus went back to His hometown and could only heal a few sick folks because the people’s unbelief (Matt. 13:58).  How can we receive what we don’t believe?  Believe, receive and be healed!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Jehovah-Tsidkenu [… tsid kay noo]

The Lord our righteousness. When we believe in Jesus Christ, He becomes our righteousness. He forgives our sins and washes us with His blood.

(Psalm 4:1, 5:8, 24:5, 31:1, 36:10, 71:15, 89:16; Jeremiah 23:6; Rom. 3:25)

Being righteous is doing that which is the right thing to do (H3072).  However, this is not according to what we consider right, but knowing and following God’s principles!  Father always does what is right for us, our own good (Rom. 8:27-28) because we seek Him first (Matt. 6:31-34) then do as the Holy Spirit leads (Psalm 143:8, Mark 13:11).  In and of ourselves we cannot obtain righteousness but Jesus has become our righteousness (1 Corinth. 1:30).

Jehovah-Jireh […Yir eh]

The Lord will provide. Jesus Christ said that Father cares for us and we never need to worry about provision. He is our source of life, in every way.  (Genesis 22:13-14; Phil. 4:19)

Strong’s reference to God’s provision is H3070 (Gen. 22:14).  God will see to it.  That is it is He who will make sure it gets done.  He does provide for us out of His riches in glory.  He knows our needs (Mat. 6:8) and will meet them (Rom. 8:27).  All we have to do is ask, believe and trust Him (Matt. 7:7, Mark 11:24, Prov. 3:5-6). 

Jehovah-Nissi […nis ee]

The Lord our banner. The Lord gives us the victory in spiritual warfare. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Lord raises a banner of His love over us and covers us. He wages war on our behalf and makes us more than conquerors through Christ Jesus.  (Exodus 17:15; Rom. 8:37; 1Corinth. 15:57)

Father sets His banner over us.  A banner is a flag or symbol (H3071) designating our allegiance.  God’s love, to some degree, should be evident to others, in our lives and that His love in us and through us is His banner over us.  The banner also implies that we are under the protection of what, or who, is portrayed by that banner, that is we have refuge in that source (Psalm 46:1).

Jehovah-Shalom [… shaw lome]

The Lord is peace. Whenever there are storms in your life, hide in Him. He is your shelter in the storm. He gives peace beyond understanding, even when circumstances are chaotic. He is our shelter and our shield.   (Judges 6:24; Psalm 23: Psalm 23:1-6; John 14:27; Rom. 5:1)

God IS our peace (H3073)  Gideon built an altar to designate God’s promise of peace.  God gives us a peace which surpasses all understanding which keeps our hearts (no matter what) (Phil. 4:7).  As we abide in His will, His peace is with us (Phil. 4:6-9).  No matter how terrible a situation may seem, trust in the Lord and He will keep us calm, cool and collect.  We won’t be overcome with anxiety as we trust in Him.  Jesus gives us His peace so He is now, our source for peace.

Jehovah-Sabaoth [… saa buh owt]

The Lord of Hosts. The Bible mentions myriads of angels, who wage war against the armies of hell, which try to destroy mankind. Jesus Christ is the Lord of hosts, the Captain of the armies of heaven.  (1 Samuel 17:45; 2 Samuel 6:2, 7:26-27; 1Kings 22:19;  1 Chronicles 11:9; Psalm 46:7; Isaiah 6:1-3; Luke 2:13-15; Rom. 9:29; James 5:4).

Sabaoth (G4519) is Greek for armies or military.  A heavenly host appeared to the shepherds announcing the birth of our Lord, Jesus.  On the mount, when the Romans came to arrest Him, Jesus told His disciples He could call upon Father and more than twelve legions of angels would come (Matt. 26:53).  In the Roman army, a legion would range between 3000 and 6000 troops.  Remember 1/3 of the angels were cast out of heaven, leaving 2/3 with Father (Rev. 12:3-4).  So, Father is the head of whole bunches and bunches and bunches of angels.  Thousands, millions, ???.  who knows how many (Father does)?  We have a lot of heavenly support!   

Jehovah-Ghmolah [gmow lah]

The God of Recompense. The Lord says in Romans 12 “vengeance is mine, I will repay.” We should never avenge others for what they do to us, but leave it in God’s hands.  (Deut. 33:35; Isa. 61:6-7; Jeremiah 51:6; Matt. 5:44; Rom 12: 17-21; Col. 2:13-14; 1 Peter 5:10).

Jesus tells us to love and do good to those who do us ill will.  Father will repay our enemies accordingly as they have done to us BUT He will also give back to us what we have lost.  Recompense is not getting back “just” what we lost, but more.  Job received double for his trouble (Job 42:10; Matt. 19:29).  Yet, consider Moses who considered what Chris offers greater than the riches of Egypt (Heb. 11:24-29).  And don’t forget Paul who consider also considered knowing Jesus better than anything the world could offer (Phil.3:7-8).  It’s nice to receive, but e also need t keep things in perspective.

Again, this is just a starter on God’s names.  Next, we’ll look at those names/qualities that compound with “El”.  God bless.

Amen

11-6-2021 ESSENCE OF LOVE Part 3 – Many aspects of God

God is LOVE (many aspects)

We shared how God’s love impacts our personal life in “Essence of Love – Part 1”.  We talked about how God’s love should impact the church in “Essence of Love – Part 2”. 

We kept saying “God is love”.  His very essence is love.  So how do we know this?  The gospel of John states the expression of God’s love for us  is that He so loved the world  that He gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16).  And in his first epistle (letter), John reaffirms this when he tells us that we know Him (God) because we hear Him and love Him and that’s why we love others.  We love Him because He loves us – why?  For God is love (1 John 4:7-16 – actually, read the whole letter).    

God IS love and all that He expresses is love, therefore since we are made in His image (Gen. 1:26), He expects us to operate in love.  This is ‘agape’ love, giving and not expecting, doing because it is the right thing to do.  Edifying others to be all that they can be in Christ Jesus (1 Corinth. 4:12, Eph. 4:12).

That love is expressed in His written Word (the bible), His creation (the world & all that is around us) and how He interacts with us.  when we are aware and listen to Him, in how He gives us direction for our lives.

The fact that He loves us and desires that we love Him implies a relationship.  There can’t be a relationship until two people ‘get to know each other’.  I’m not talking in the ‘biblical sense’ between a man and his wife.  I am talking about getting to know how another feels, thinks, things they enjoy, things they don’t like, etc., etc.  Father (God) has already done His part.  He knows us before we are even a twinkle in mom and dad’s eyes.  He knows us before we are born into this world.  And He know us even after we have ‘arrived into this world (Jer. 1:5).  So now, it’s our turn (our time) to get to know Him. 

How do we do that?  First, we have to start reading the manual He has given us (the bible).  Whoa!  I can’t even understand half what the King James bible says.  Okay, so find a more modern translation that makes some sense to you.  We have to start somewhere!  Believe me, once we start reading, the Holy Ghost will guide us into tools such as other translations, ‘Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance’ or commentaries, or maybe even back into King James, as our understanding grows and our questions become deeper.  Father will give us today what we can receive and can understand today but tomorrow, He will give us what we need and can understand tomorrow.  When we were a child, we ate like a child, dressed like a child, talked like a child, but as we aged (matured) we moved into deeper things as we were able to handle taking care of ourselves.  A baby doesn’t walk the day he is born.  It usually take nine months to a year before he can do so.  So is our walk with our Lord.  Like the child, we see, we desire and Father will give it to us as we are able to handle it!

But the bible is best and most logical place to start.  Father then puts Pastors, Sunday School teachers, other ministers and friends into our lives to help us grow. 

A baby depends on mom and dad for everything, at first, but as he grows, mom and dad teach him to do things for himself with wisdom (hopefully) to make the right choices as he grows.  Father deals with us in the same way.  He continues to give us more as we are able to handle it and as we learn to walk with Him (Father), in Jesus Christ because His Holy Spirit (Ghost) dwells within our heart.    

As we come to know Father, more and more, we discover that He is not only our Savior (Jesus) but our comforter, provider, protector, teacher and so much more.    

The names which God is known by, throughout the bible, gives us insight to the many aspects of His love towards us.  Of course He is “El” (H410 – these, those.  God is a plurality, the Godhead, the trinity.  I like the way Father explained this to me - Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost.  Existence, Word or flesh, Spirit or breath.  God is Father, creator of all things.  He speaks words to get things done and He made those words flesh, born in the manger as Jesus.  God’s breath carries His Words into action and His breath IS the Holy Ghost.  AND He shares His Holy Ghost with us as He lives within our heart.  As promised by Jesus (Acts 1:8) and the initial outpouring as received by the disciples in the upper room (Acts 2:1-4).  I say ‘initial’ because Jesus couldn’t share the Holy Ghost with us until after He was glorified (John7:39).  Any argument that Jesus was fully glorified when He returned to Father (Acts 1:9-10)?  So, though we consider three aspects of God, He was, is and always will be ONE GOD!  And that God is love!

So, just what is God’s love?  Let’s look at the many aspects of that love.

To help us with a better understanding of just who God is, here’s a list of names by which He is known.  Now, these names don’t imply multiple “Gods”, but rather qualities of the love Father expresses towards us. 

There are more names than what is listed here, that’s why there are more references at the end of this list.

El is a compounding form and is usually used with another, descriptive word like ‘Rapha’ (heal), Raphael (God heals)

Of course, God is Jehovah, Yaweh.   

Here’s a short list of the names of God

http://www.godisreal.today/names-of-god/

Yahweh

The self-existent One. He has always existed and will always exist. You can always rely on Him because He is your eternal source of strength.

(Genesis 2:4, Isaiah 40:3; 10; 1 Samuel 1:20; Exodus 6:1-4, 3:1-22)

Adonai

God is the Lord over all. He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords, He reigns forever. Therefor you find safety in Him and Him alone.

(Genesis 15:2, Judges 6:15, Malachi 1:6, Deuteronomy 10:17; Psalm 2:4, 8:1, 97:5, 136:3; Isaiah 1:24, 6:1; Romans 10:9)

Yahweh-Maccaddeshem

The Lord your sanctifier. He forgiveness your sins and His Holy Spirit works in your life to become like He is: pure, loving and true.

(Exodus 31:13, Leviticus 20:8; Ezekiel 37:28)

Yahweh-Rohi

The Lord my shepherd. He cares for you, the way a shepherd tends his sheep. He cares for you and leads you to still waters and green pastures.

(Psalm 23, 80:1, 95:7, Isaiah 40:11, Jeremiah 31:10, Ezekiel 34:12, 23)

Yahweh-Shammah

The Lord who is present. He never leaves you, nor forsakes you. He is with you forever. Your best friend, who never betrays you.

(Ezekiel 48:35, Genesis 28:15, Ezekiel 48:35, Psalm 23:4, 46:1, 139:7-12, Jeremiah 23:23-24, Amos 5:14)

 

Yahweh-Rapha

The Lord our healer. “By His stripes were are healed” declares the Bible. Jesus Christ died to give you life. Not only was God the healer in the Old Testament, but Jesus Christ revealed the healing heart of God for all of us, more than ever.

(Exodus 15:26, Exodus 15:26, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 6:2, 41:4, 103:3, 147:3, Isaiah 19:22, 30:36, 57:18-19, Jeremiah 3:22; 17:14, 30:17)

Yahweh-Tsidkenu

The Lord our righteousness. When we believe in Jesus Christ, He becomes our righteousness. He forgives our sins and washes us with His blood.

(Jeremiah 23:6, Genesis 15:6, Jeremiah 23:6, Psalm 4:1, 5:8, 24:5, 31:1, 36:10, 71:15, 89:16)

Yahweh-Jireh

The Lord will provide. Jesus Christ said that Father cares for us and we never need to worry about provision. He is our source of life, in every way.  (Genesis 22:13-14)

Yahweh-Nissi

The Lord our banner. The Lord gives us the victory in spiritual warfare. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Lord raises a banner of His love over us and covers us. He wages war on our behalf and makes us more than conquerors in Christ Jesus.  (Exodus 17:15)

Yahweh-Shalom

The Lord is peace. Whenever there are storms in your life, hide in Him. He is your shelter in the storm. He gives peace beyond understanding, even when circumstances are chaotic. He is our shelter and our shield.   (Judges 6:24)

Yahweh-Sabbaoth

The Lord of Hosts. The Bible mentions myriads of angels, who wage war against the armies of hell, who try to destroy mankind. Jesus Christ is the Lord of hosts, the Captain of the armies of heaven.  (Isaiah 6:1-3, 1 Samuel 1:3, 17:45; 2 Samuel 6:2, 7:26-27; 1 Chronicles 11:9; Haggai 1:5)

Yahweh-Ghmolah

The God of Recompense. The Lord says in Romans 12 “vengeance is mine, I will repay.” We should never avenge others for what they do to us, but leave it in God’s hands.

(Jeremiah 51:6)  Elohim

God is creator, powerful and mighty, Lord of lords. He is the Lord Most High, stronger and mightier than anyone or anything. When you face impossible circumstances or adversaries, now that your God is stronger.  (Gen. 1:1, 17:7, Ps 19:1 Jer. 31:33)

 

 

El-Elyon

The most high God. Do not fear the enemy who tries to intimidate you. Know that your God is the Most High God. There is none above Him. Jesus Christ is exalted high above every name.  (Genesis 14:17-20, Deuteronomy 26:19, Isaiah 14:13-14)

El-Gibhor

Mighty God. The Lord is mighty to save. His arm is not too short. Whatever problem you are facing, know that your God is El-Gibhor, MIGHTY!  (Isaiah 9:6)

El-Olam

The everlasting God. God is eternal, while your problems are temporary. His love will never change. His promises are true. Build on Him, who is eternal and do not focus on your temporary situations. He will show you His great and eternal goodness.  (Isaiah 40:28-31)

El-Roi

The strong one who sees. When you feel lonely and abandoned by people, know that God is with you. He sees you and He knows you. He hears the cry of your heart and He loves you more than you can imagine. he will lead you through and fill your hear with His praise.(Genesis 16:13)

El-Shaddai-Rohi

God Almighty, the mighty One of Jacob. God is not just another ‘god’ like the countless idols. He truly is the Almighty Creator of heaven and earth.  (Gen. 17:1, 49:24, Ps. 91:1, 132:2, 5)

El-Chuwl

The God who gave birth. God is our Creator and our Father. He saw us and He loved us, even before we were born. He has a plan for your life and if you walk with Him, He will fulfill His dreams over your life and amaze you.  (Psalm 139:13-18)

El-Deah

God of knowledge. Wisdom comes from the Lord. Man tries to become wise apart from God, ut ends up in foolishness. When we fear God and keep His commandments, to love one another, we will know Him as He is and His wisdom will guide us.  (1 Samuel 2:3; Romans 11:33-36;           1 Cor. 1:18-31)

Attiyq Youm

The Ancient of Days. God is eternal. He was before the beginning of time. Therefor He has all authority. Every knee bows before Him.  (Daniel 7:9, 13, 14)

And here are some other lists you can check out.

http://www.christiananswers.net/dictionary/namesofgod.html#top          900+ names

https://www.lwf.org/names-of-god      21 names

http://www.bible.ca/trinity/trinity-definition-god-titles.htm      56 OT, 16NT, 44 Jesus, 12 HG names

https://www.gotquestions.org/names-of-God.html       19 names

http://www.characterbuildingforfamilies.com/names.html      625 names + brkdwn some Hebrew & I Am

Understand, I’m still learning (in part) so bear with me as this is what Father has shared with me, to pass on, so far.  Father is continually tweaking what He has shared with me, so I look forward to when we are in His presence.  For then, tweaking will no longer be needed.  All we will have to do is ask and He will tell us, plainly and clearly.  Jesus tells us that He has made known known to His disciples (John 15:15), all that Father revealed to Him.  Remember, Jesus is the living Word of God so if Father said it, Jesus knew it.  Yet, after describing the end times, Jesus tells the disciples “No one knows the day nor hour, not man, not even the angels in heaven, only Father (Matt. 24:36).  Again, Jesus is the “living Word of God, so apparently Father never said (spoke) exactly when the end times would be.

As a capper for us is that we show our love for God by loving Him and allowing that love not just to flow into our heart, but also allowing that love to flow out of our heart to those around us. whatever we face, e yield it over to God – and don’t take it back.  This means we give everything over to Father then follow His direction.  Yes, there are times we may have to do something!

The essence of God is LOVE and I pray this series on the “Essence of Love” will help you attain a little better understanding of what that actually involves.  I pray this helps you walk a little closer with Father, through Jesus Christ because the Holy Ghost is alive and well within our heart.

May the love of God abide in you always!

Amen