The first half of Genesis 2:4 refers to the original creation, and the second half describes God’s work in the second, third and fourth day. The first work was creation, and the second work was a restoration of the clouds in day two, the earth in day three, and the solar system in day four. The words, “in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens” mark the beginning of a new narrative. The first narrative states what God did and includes the universe and all things therein. The second mainly describes how the work of the days number two, three, five, and six was done.
In the first, God is called “Elohim”, indicating creative relationship and infinite power. In the second, He is called “Lord God” in Genesis 2:4 – “Yahweh” and “Elohim”, indicating covenant relationship and infinite power, so as to inspire man with faith. That God existed from all eternity is very clear in many scriptures.
This is the first of hundreds of occurrences of this title. It means the self-existent or eternal Creator, the “Elohim” in covenant relationship with His people. Yahweh (Jehovah) really means the Eternal, the immutable One, He who was, and is, and is to come. The name Jehovah is combined with other words which form what we know as the Jehovah titles. Here are 16 names of our Lord God:
- Jehovah-Elohim–the eternal Creator (Gen. 2:4-25)
- Adonai-Jehovah–the Lord our Sovereign Master Jehovah (Gen. 15:2,8)
- Jehovah-Jireh–the Lord will see or provide (Gen. 22:8-14)
- Jehovah-Nissi–the Lord our banner (Ex. 17:15)
- Jehovah-Rapha–the Lord our healer (Ex. 15:26)
- Jehovah-Shalom–the Lord our peace (Judg. 6:24)
- Jehovah-Tsidqenuw–the Lord our righteousness (Jer. 23:6; 33:16)
- Jehovah-Mekaddishkem–the Lord our sanctifier (Ex. 31:13; Lev. 20:8; 21:8; 22:9,16,32; Ezek. 20:12)
- Jehovah-Sabaoth–the Lord of hosts (1Sam. 1:3; etc., 284 times)
- Jehovah-Shammah–the Lord is present (Ezek. 48:35)
- Jehovah-Elyown–the Lord Most High (Ps. 7:17; 47:2; 97:9)
- Jehovah-Rohi–the Lord my Shepherd (Ps. 23:1)
- Jehovah-Hoseenu–the Lord our Maker (Ps. 95:6)
- Jehovah-Eloheenu–the Lord our God (Ps. 99:5,8,9)
- Jehovah-Eloheka–the Lord thy God (Ex. 20:2,5,7)
- Jehovah-Elohay–the Lord my God (Zech. 14:5)
These titles are more than names. They are the description of who God is for us. I believe this almighty God who made a covenant with you is willing to come to you in different aspects. Through the Holy Spirit, He is going to reveal Himself in different ways, not only in spirit but also in truth.
Let’s welcome Jehovah, our God, as the good shepherd for the coming season. As we face human challenges on this earth, He is our Jehovah – our God our righteousness. He is our peace in the middle of turmoil and even persecutions. Jehovah our God is going to reveal Himself as our banner to take new territories and promises. If we need healing, he is Lord – God our Healer.
Prayer : Lord God who the created heavens, the earth and the whole universe including me, I want to know You better. Holy Spirit, reveal me the coming days who God really is. I want to know my Lord and my God, walk in close fellowship with Him and also experience His character and attributes in my daily life.
Quote : God “Yahweh”, “Jehovah”, really means the Eternal, the immutable One, He who was, and is, and is to come.
