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"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."
Genesis 1:1
We're actually going to go backwards this week in our study of the names of God all the way to the very beginning of Scripture and the first time we are given one of His names.
Oftentimes the first way in which someone is introduced or described or named is particularly important and carries a lot of weight.
Here, in Genesis 1:1, the Hebrew word translated as "God" is "Elohim", a name of God used over 2,000 times in the Old Testament. The frequency of its usage is thought to underscore its significance in the Hebrew Scriptures.
This word denotes rulership and authority. Here, from the very first verse of the Bible, we see that the Creator God is the all-powerful Creator of heaven and earth, demonstrating His authority and rulership over all creation. That is the intended meaning behind the name "Elohim", the very first way we are introduced to God.
So what does this mean for us?
It is a good reminder for all of us to view God in that way - as the One in supreme authority over everything. This is important not only because we owe Him our allegiance, obedience, and surrender, but also because of the comfort this reminder brings to us. Remembering that He is in charge over all brings comfort when we are going through hard times and we can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. We may not know what is happening or why, but we can know that He Who rules all things is in control and is working everything out for our good (Romans 8:28). We can rest knowing that a good and gracious Father is the One ultimately in charge and that He will bring His perfect plan to pass in and through our lives.
That is a gift of a reminder which comes from this one Hebrew word, Elohim. May it encourage your heart today.
Reflection Questions:
1) Were you already familiar with this word Elohim?
2) What stands out to you about its meaning?
3) How can you apply the truth it reveals about God's nature to your own life and gain comfort and encouragement from it?
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