By Andrew Williams
He Is (Week 1: The Foundational Names)
Opening Prayer
Faithful God, thank you for not being a distant deity, but a personal, covenant-keeping God who invites us to know Your name.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
Exodus 3:14
“God replied to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.'”
If Elohim is God’s majestic title, then Yahweh (often translated as “The LORD” in all caps) is His personal, covenant name. When Moses asks for God’s name at the burning bush, God responds with “I AM WHO I AM.” This is the essence of Yahweh. It means He is self-existent; He doesn’t depend on anyone or anything for His being. He simply is.
This name reveals God’s eternal nature and His faithfulness. Because He is the great “I AM,” He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His promises are not dependent on changing circumstances. He is the God who makes covenants with His people and is always faithful to keep them. While Elohim speaks of His power, Yahweh speaks of His personal, relational presence.
To know God as Yahweh is to move from knowing about God to knowing God personally. It is the name He gives to His covenant family. He is not a generic god; He is Yahweh, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God who sees, hears, and acts on behalf of His people. He is the “I AM” for whatever you need.
Disciple’s Life Tip: Interact with God as Yahweh today. Finish this sentence in prayer: “Yahweh, I need you to be my I AM for ________ today.” (For example, “my I AM for strength,” “my I AM for peace,” “my I AM for wisdom”).
Closing Prayer: Yahweh, our covenant-keeping God, thank You for revealing Your personal name to us. Help us to find all our security and hope in You, the great I AM. Amen.
