YAHWEH SHAMMAH
YAHWEH SHAMMAH
The Lord Is There
The Journey of Intimacy
The Book of Genesis narrates the story of beginnings, depicting an intimate relationship between God and humanity. However, the introduction of sin disrupts this closeness. Feeling unworthy of God’s presence, Adam and Eve hide from Him. Their sin leads to their expulsion from paradise, with the path back to God barred.
Yet, God does not abandon humanity. Instead, He begins to restore His relationship with them by choosing a people for Himself. He delivers them from slavery in Egypt, as noted in Deuteronomy 4:37 (NIV), “by His Presence and His great strength.” God’s presence was manifested first as a pillar of cloud and fire, then in the movable tabernacle during their desert wanderings, and later in the temple in Jerusalem.
Despite God’s efforts, His people continue to sin. Tragically, the prophet Ezekiel witnesses the glory of God departing from the temple due to their unfaithfulness. Yet, amidst this sorrow, Ezekiel offers a hopeful prophecy, foretelling a time of restoration when “the name of the city from that time on will be: THE LORD IS THERE” (Ezekiel 48:35 NIV).
Although Yahweh Shammah refers to a city, it’s so closely associated with God’s presence and power that it is often used as a name for God in popular understanding. In the New Testament, it parallels the name Immanuel, meaning "God with Us," which is given to Jesus. Yahweh Shammah (yah-WEH SHAM-mah), the Lord Is There, serves as a reminder of our purpose to experience and reflect God’s presence.
Praying to Yahweh Shammah
The Need for God’s Presence
"Mom, when are you coming to bed?" This plaintive question from one of my daughters expresses a universal desire for closeness and reassurance. She felt lonely and needed to know that I was near. Similarly, we all crave a sense of God’s presence.
Throughout my life, I have faced moments where I felt not His presence but His absence. Instead of experiencing the "LORD IS THERE," I felt as if I were praying to the "LORD Who Is Not There." This feeling can be overwhelming, causing us to doubt God's love and care. We may think, "God doesn't love me," or "He doesn't care about my pain." These thoughts can erode our confidence in the very God who knows every detail about us and values us beyond measure.
Moreover, our failures can leave us feeling unworthy and broken. This brokenness reflects the human condition. Yet, it is essential not to conclude that God has abandoned us. Instead, we should pray honestly, asking Him to reveal His love and confessing our sins.
Finding Community and Truth
In times of doubt, it’s vital to resist the enemy's lies and confide in fellow believers who can encourage us with truth. Being part of a faith community can reignite our spirits, reminding us of God’s promises. Additionally, reading God’s Word can help us sense His presence once more.
If we commit to these practices, we will eventually feel God’s presence again. When that time comes, we may look back on our struggles and see them as part of God’s greater purpose for us. We will recognize that we are, indeed, living in the presence of the Lord who is always there.
A Prayer for Divine Presence
Yahweh Shammah, thank You for Your promise to be with Your people. Keep us close, and when we stray, please call us back. Increase our faith and deepen our confidence that You are near.
Promises Associated with the Name
“My presence will go with you, and I will give you peace.” (Exodus 33:14)
“When you go through the sea, I am with you. When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not harm you.” (Isaiah 43:2)
Conclusion
Yahweh Shammah, the Lord Is There, invites us to experience His presence in our lives. Despite our struggles and feelings of abandonment, He remains faithful and close. By nurturing our relationship with Him through prayer, community, and His Word, we can reaffirm our confidence in His enduring presence. Let us embrace this promise, knowing that we are never truly alone and that God is always with us.
Comments
Post a Comment