Listen to last week’s sermon: Knowing God Through His Names part 3.

Last week’s sermon focused on three powerful names of God. The first name we explored is Jehovah Jireh, which means “The Lord will provide.” This name is a familiar one to many who have grown up in the church, as it is often mentioned in the context of praying for material needs like a new house, a car, or other provisions. The central message was that God is indeed our provider, and He takes care of His children when they seek His help.

The sermon emphasized that Jehovah Jireh is more than just a name associated with material blessings. The congregation was encouraged to explore the true context in which this name was first mentioned, as it goes beyond mere provisions.

Read Genesis 22:1-3.

In these verses, God tested Abraham by instructing him to take his beloved son, Isaac, to the land of Moriah and offer him as a burnt offering. This request from God was deeply confusing and troubling to Abraham, as Isaac was the child of promise, the son through whom God had promised to bless the nations. Abraham’s obedience in the face of such a bewildering command highlighted the theme of uncertainty and confusion in our lives, which can often parallel our own challenging and uncertain times today.

The sermon emphasized the importance of recognizing that God often reveals Himself during moments of need and testing. It is in these moments that we experience His provision, His healing (Jehovah Rapha), His protection (Jehovah Sabaoth), and His peace (Jehovah Shalom). Just as Abraham’s faith was tested and rewarded with God’s provision of a ram for the offering instead of Isaac, we are encouraged to hold on during times of testing and trials, as God may be just around the corner, ready to reveal Himself in a profound way.

The sermon also touched on the concept of God’s presence, highlighting the different levels of God’s presence in our lives. These included God’s omnipresence (being present everywhere), His indwelling presence in believers, the anticipation of His presence in the heavenly realm, and the Shekinah Glory. The manifested presence of God was emphasized as something we experience in worship, prayer, and when we take care of the poor and His work.

In conclusion, the sermon reinforced the idea that Jehovah Jireh, “The Lord will provide,” is not just about God meeting our material needs but also about God providing a way for humanity’s salvation through the sacrifice of His own Son, Jesus Christ. The message encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s unchanging nature, especially in the face of uncertainties and changing times. It reminded them that God’s promises remain steadfast, and His peace (Jehovah Shalom) is available to all who seek Him, even in the midst of life’s challenges.

Watch here: