Word For Today

Hope of Change

I’ve found that we can learn so much about the Lord by examining His many names found in the Bible. Each one reveals a unique aspect of His character along with a very specific promise for our lives.

When we get to know God—really know Him—it fills us with hope and confidence because we realize He’s greater than any situation we will ever encounter. Understanding God’s character and incredible love for us allows us to relax and trust Him in every area of our lives.

Changing from the Inside Out

The Bible says He is Jehovah Jireh, which means “Your Provider” (Genesis 22:14). He’s Jehovah Rapha, “Your Healer” (Exodus 15:26), and Jehovah Shalom, “Your Peace” (Judges 6:24).

The Lord is also referred to as Jehovah M’Kaddesh, which means “The Lord who sanctifies us” (Leviticus 20:8). This literally means He is the God who changes us. It’s so encouraging to know we don’t have to change ourselves, because when we try to change on our own, it only produces frustration and struggle.

Philippians 2:12-13 (AMP) says, …Work out…your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling…. [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure….

You see, when you begin a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit comes to live inside of you. Now you have great things on the inside, but they need to be “worked out” to the outside. We need to learn how to think right, talk right, and treat other people the way we should. And we can only do it through God’s strength and help.