The more we know the nature and character of God, the more we will trust Him. And the more we trust Him, the more intimate our relationship will be.

Yahweh Shammah

Yahweh Shammah means, “The Lord is there.” It reminds us that we were created both to enjoy and to manifest God’s presence. Yahweh Shammah is a name for a city rather than a title of God. But, it is so closely associated with God’s presence and power that it has often been equated with a name for God.

You will find this name in Scripture in Ezekiel 48:35, “From then on the city’s name will be “Yahweh Shammah.” 

If you read Ezekiel 37:21-28, you will learn how God wanted to forgive and restore the nation of Israel, even while they were in idolatry and disobedience. The longing of Yahweh’s heart was for them to no longer be a divided nation and He desired to extend forgiveness and cleansing to His beloved people. He declared promises over them; that He would establish them, make them increase in number and put His holy place among them permanently. Then, they would be known as a people in which, “The Lord is there.”

While you can relate this story to a nation or even the Body of Christ, as a whole, I can’t help but apply to it to “this” body, “this” temple of the Holy Spirit…me and you, individually. The scripture in Romans 5:8 rings loud in my ears as I read this passage…”But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Also the words of John in I John 4:10, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 

Aren’t you so thankful that you are walking in the promises of forgiveness, cleansing, love, and every spiritual blessing of our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ? We can confidently declare that He is, “Yahweh Shammah, The Lord is There,” in us!

How do you experience God’s presence in your day-to-day life? Think back over this last week. How has God been present with you in your work, your family, your friendships, your difficulties? 

Thank God for being with you even when you don’t realize it! Isaiah 43:2 says, “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 be burned, and the flames will not harm you.” He is always there!