Names-of-God

A child was crying behind me. I turned and saw that the youth pastor’s 11-month-old son was tired and cranky. He threw himself on the floor, arching his back, and wailing.

The youth pastor was a tall, strong guy, kind of like Superman minus the cape. He reached down and picked up his son and cradled him in his arms.

The little guy wrestled for a few moments, but his daddy held him close and whispered to him. Within minutes the child settled down and fell asleep, safe in his daddy’s embrace.

It was as if God gave me a glimpse of himself.

He is a Father who is strong, yet gentle.

He is firm, but loving.

He reaches for his children when they are tired or restless and even when they are in rebellion and don’t know where to turn. He hold them close when they wrestle against his touch. He draws them to a safe place.

namesofgod

Maybe your experience with an earthly dad looks nothing like this.

Or you feel like that child, angry, frustrated, tired.

Who is God to you, even then?

He is. . .

Jehovah Nissi (The Lord My Banner) – He goes before you. 

Jehovah-Raah (The Lord My Shepherd) – He watches over you. 

Jehovah Rapha (The Lord That Heals) – He makes you whole. 

Jehovah Shammah (The Lord Is There) – He’s present. 

Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord Our Righteousness) – He cleanses you from sin. 

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (The Lord Who Sanctifies You) – You can run to Him freely because of His great sacrifice.

El Olam (The Everlasting God) – He will never leave nor forsake you.

Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide) – He sees your need and He’s sufficient.

Jehovah Shalom (The Lord Is Peace) – He soothes your troubled thoughts. 

Jehovah Sabaoth (The Lord of Hosts) – His greatness reaches beyond earthly constraints.

canvas-printing-baby-holding-dad

If are experiencing sorrow, today He cradles you in His arms.

If you have rebelled, He still loves you.

If you are tired and cranky, He holds you close until you rest.

How big is God?

Big enough. 

Suzie

Just You and God

Write down the names of God in your journal.

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where God is big enough today.

Make that a prayer.