By Andrew Williams
Series: He Is (Week 2: The Covenant Names of Provision)
Opening Prayer
Lord of Hosts, we stand in awe of Your infinite power. Thank You that the commander of heaven’s armies is on our side.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
1 Samuel 1:3
“Each year Elkanah would travel to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the Lord of Hosts, where Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, served as the Lord’s priests.”
Introduced in a time of national and spiritual turmoil for Israel, the name Yahweh Sabaoth means “The Lord of Hosts” or “The Lord of Armies.” It is a declaration of God’s supreme power and authority over every force in the universe, both seen and unseen. The “hosts” can refer to the armies of Israel, but more powerfully, it refers to the angelic armies of heaven.
This name reveals that God is the divine warrior, the commander-in-chief of an innumerable and invincible army. When we feel outnumbered, overwhelmed, and powerless against the forces of darkness or the challenges of this world, Yahweh Sabaoth reminds us that we are not alone. The God we serve has all the resources of heaven at His command.
To know God as Yahweh Sabaoth is to have a holy confidence in the face of impossible odds. It’s the perspective Elisha had when he told his frightened servant, “Don’t be afraid! For there are more on our side than on theirs!” (2 Kings 6:16). The Lord of Hosts is with us, and His power is infinitely greater than any opposition we could ever face.
Disciple’s Life Tip: Interact with God as Yahweh Sabaoth. Are you facing an overwhelming challenge? In prayer, ask Yahweh Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts, to fight on your behalf. Acknowledge that His power and His armies are greater than your problem.
Closing Prayer: Yahweh Sabaoth, I take refuge in Your mighty power. Thank You that I am on the side of the Commander of Heaven’s Armies. I trust You to fight for me. Amen.
