The Mighty Names of Our Lord

JEHOVAH: The Name that refers to GOD and most frequently used in the Old Testament. It was used 6823 times. The name Jehovah refers God as the Being who is absolutely self-existent, the One who is Himself possesses essential life, permanent existence. God said to Moses (Exodus 3: 13-15), “I AM WHO I AM”. Our God is more than Jehovah. HE has different names compounded with Jehovah. This God is a Loving God.

1. Jehovah-jireh - The Lord will provide   Genesis 22:1-19
2. Jehovah-tsidkenu - The Lord our righteousness   Jeremiah 23: 1-6
3. Jehovah-nissi - The Lord is my banner   Exodus 17:8-16
4. Jehovah-raah - The Lord my shepherd   Psalm 23
5. Jehovah-rapha - The Lord who heals   Exodus 15:22-27
6. Jehovah-shalom - The Lord is peace   Judges 6:22-24
7. Jehovah-saboath - The Lord of hosts   Malachi 1:10, 14
8. Jehovah-shammah - The Lord is there (city’s name)   Ezekiel 48:35
9. Jehovah-mekoddishkem - The Lord who sanctifies you   Exodus 31:12-18

Jehovah-raah: The Lord my shepherd (Psalm 23)

This Psalm is the beautiful song of TRUST. David pictures the Lord as the great shepherd who provides for and protects His sheep (vv. 1-4) and as a gracious host who protects and provides abundantly for His guests (vv. 5-6)

Verse 1. The figure of a shepherd depicts the Lord as guide, protector, and constant companion. (John 10:11). [God guides]

Verse 2. lie down – in contentment and rest. [God provides]

Phillip Keller’s “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23”.
He says, it’s impossible for sheep to lie down unless four things are true.
1.   Sheep must be free from hunger.
2.   They must be free from fear (if sheep are to rest).
3.   Sheep cannot rest unless they are free from friction (with their folks).
4.   Sheep cannot rest unless they are free from pests.

Verse 3. restores – through the provision of food. God’s leading is always in paths that are right in His eyes and that will honor His name [God who comforts or restores].

Verse 4. The shepherd protects his sheep with rod (uses to protect) & staff (uses to discipline) – [God – The protector].

Verse 5. As a gracious host God provides all that we need. Also, anoint. This is a courtesy shown guests at a banquet [God anoints].

Verse 6. David sees himself not as a guest-for-a-day but as a recipient of God’s love forever.

Reference: Lord, I want to know you – Kay Arthur

Paul J. Joseph, 12/31/02