Know His Heart

Genesis 22:10–18

10 And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. 11 And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. 12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. 13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. 14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen. 15 And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time, 16 And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: 17 That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; 18 And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice. 

John 1:29

29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

Meaning and Etymology

“Jehovah Jireh” is a phrase drawn from the Hebrew text found in Genesis 22:14 (BSB: “And Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. So to this day it is said, ‘On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided.’”). In Hebrew, it involves the covenant name for God (YHWH, often rendered as “Jehovah” in older English texts) and the root for “see” or “provide” (ra’ah). The phrase is commonly translated as “The LORD Will Provide,” underscoring divine provision and care.

The etymology also suggests “The LORD will see to it,” indicating God’s foreknowledge in meeting needs. Some interpret this as “The LORD who sees,” but the overarching theme is God’s proactive ability to supply what is lacking.

[Of course, the greatest need of mankind is to know and develop a deep love-relationship with the GOD Who provided Himself as a lamb on Golgotha's Hill to "take away the sin of the world." (John 1:29). The fulfilling of the Adamic Covenant is in view. (Genesis 3:15 ). O, what LOVE is this that YHWH would give Himself in His SON to redeem you and me from our sin! (John 3:16).]

Biblical Context

Genesis 22 records the account of Abraham’s faith when God instructs him to offer Isaac, the son of promise, as a sacrifice on Mount Moriah. This testing culminates in two major moments:

• Abraham’s obedience to proceed in faith that God could and would fulfill His promises (Genesis 22:3-5).

• God’s intervention by providing a ram as a substitutionary sacrifice for Isaac (Genesis 22:13).

In response, Abraham names the location “Jehovah Jireh” to memorialize God’s faithful provision. Thus, the immediate context is one of tested faith, trust in God’s promises, and the demonstration of God’s power to provide an alternative.

Historical and Archaeological Insights

The region of Moriah, where Abraham journeyed, has been associated by tradition with the area of Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 3:1). While there is ongoing discussion regarding the exact physical site, archaeological studies support that worship on or near the mountainous regions around Jerusalem traces far back into ancient history.

In comparing surviving manuscripts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls (which preserve portions of Genesis in ancient Hebrew), the phrase pointing to God’s provision remains consistent throughout copy and translation. Examination of these manuscripts confirms the reliability of the Genesis narrative, reinforcing the continuity of the name “LORD Will Provide.”

Theological Significance

The name “Jehovah Jireh” highlights central themes:

• Divine Faithfulness: It offers an assurance that God is able to meet needs, whether physical or spiritual. This is reflected in multiple passages of Scripture underscoring the Lord’s care (cf. Psalm 23:1: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”).

• Foreshadowing Substitution: The ram provided in place of Isaac foreshadows God’s ultimate provision through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The idea of a substitute who takes the place of another is a core theological concept culminating in the atoning work of Christ (John 1:29).

• Continuity of Covenant: By calling God “Jehovah Jireh,” Abraham publicly declared God’s reliability in fulfilling the covenant promises. It is a direct statement that God’s provisions are tied to His faithfulness.

Scripture-Wide References

Several passages reinforce this concept of divine provision:

• 1 Kings 17:1-16: God provides for Elijah through extraordinary means (ravens, then a widow’s unending flour and oil).

• Matthew 6:25-33: Jesus reminds His listeners not to worry, for the Father knows their needs and will provide.

These examples expand on “Jehovah Jireh” by showing that God’s provision was not isolated to Abraham’s experience but extends across biblical history and into the teachings of the New Testament.

Practical Application

“Jehovah Jireh” becomes a guiding truth for life’s trials. The lesson is not simply that God grants material blessings, but that He intimately knows every situation. As shown in Abraham’s test, believers are called to trust in God’s timing and method of provision. This anticipation can shape a person’s response to challenges, believing confidently that the living God sees and will see to every need.

In times of hardship, remembering “Jehovah Jireh” strengthens faith, prompts thankful worship, and shouldn’t be reduced to a mere financial hope. Rather, it is a comprehensive trust in the One who meets every conceivable need-from forgiveness of sins to daily sustenance.

Correlation with the Person of Christ

Jesus taught that our Father in heaven is fully aware of our needs and provides abundantly (Matthew 6:33). In a broader theological sense, the name “Jehovah Jireh” is ultimately and most profoundly realized in Christ’s sacrificial work. As the Lamb provided by God, Jesus fulfills the promise foreshadowed in Abraham’s ram-a clear parallel that highlights God’s plan for redemption. Romans 8:32 underscores God’s generosity: “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all-how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?”

Conclusion

“Jehovah Jireh” speaks to God’s timeless ability and desire to provide. Centered in the historical events of Genesis 22, its significance spans the entirety of Scripture. The consistent testimony of biblical manuscripts, the continuity across both Old and New Testaments, and the experience of believers across centuries confirm that this name of God stands as a vivid reminder of divine faithfulness. Ultimately, it points to the heart of salvation history: God’s provision of life and grace through Jesus Christ. - Bible Hub

Genesis 17:1

1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I AM the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.

Exodus 6:3

3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by My name JEHOVAH (YHWH) was I not known to them.

Psalm 91:1 

1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Job 5:17

17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: Therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:

Revelation 1:8

8 I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, saith the Lord, Which is, and Which was, and Which is to come, the Almighty.

Revelation 19:6 

6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth.

Revelation 19:15

15 And out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations: and He shall rule them with a rod of iron: and He treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

ALMIGHTY

The term "Almighty" is a significant designation for God in the Bible, emphasizing His supreme power and authority over all creation. It is a translation of the Hebrew word "Shaddai" and the Greek word "Pantokrator," both of which convey the idea of God's omnipotence and sovereign rule.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, "Almighty" is often used to highlight God's unparalleled strength and His ability to accomplish His will without hindrance. One of the earliest occurrences is found in Genesis 17:1, where God reveals Himself to Abram: "When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, 'I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless.'" . Here, God Almighty establishes His covenant with Abram, underscoring His power to fulfill His promises.

The name "El Shaddai" is frequently associated with God's covenantal faithfulness and His ability to provide and protect. In the book of Job, the term is used extensively, reflecting on God's sovereignty and the mystery of His ways. Job 37:23 states, "The Almighty is beyond our reach; He is exalted in power; in His justice and great righteousness, He does not oppress." . This passage highlights the transcendence and righteousness of the Almighty, who governs the universe with perfect justice.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, the Greek term "Pantokrator" is used to describe God's almighty nature. It appears prominently in the book of Revelation, where it underscores God's ultimate authority over the cosmos and His role in the final judgment. Revelation 1:8 declares, "'I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God, 'who is and was and is to come—the Almighty.'" This verse affirms God's eternal existence and His control over the past, present, and future.

The title "Almighty" in the New Testament also emphasizes the power of Christ, who shares in the divine nature. In Revelation 19:15, Christ is depicted as the conquering King: "Out of His mouth proceeds a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and He will rule them with an iron scepter. He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty." This imagery portrays Christ as the executor of God's almighty judgment.

Theological Significance

The concept of God as the Almighty is central to understanding His nature and attributes. It affirms His omnipotence, meaning that God possesses unlimited power and is capable of doing anything that is consistent with His character. This attribute assures believers of God's ability to fulfill His promises, provide for their needs, and protect them from harm.

Furthermore, recognizing God as the Almighty fosters a sense of reverence and awe, encouraging worship and submission to His will. It also provides comfort and assurance, knowing that the Almighty God is in control of all circumstances and that nothing can thwart His purposes.

In summary, the title "Almighty" encapsulates the essence of God's power and authority, serving as a reminder of His sovereign rule over all creation and His unwavering commitment to His people.  - Topical Bible

Isaiah 43:10

10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, And my servant whom I have chosen: That ye may know and believe Me, And understand that I am He: Before Me there was no God formed, Neither shall there be after Me.

Psalm 7:17 

17 I will praise the Lord according to his righteousness: And will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.

Psalm 47:2

2 For the Lord Most High is terrible; He is a great King over all the earth.

Daniel 4:34 

34 And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed The Most High, and I praised and honoured Him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation:

Theological Significance:

El Elyon is a title that conveys the transcendence and omnipotence of God. It affirms that God is above all earthly and heavenly powers, ruling with absolute authority. This title reassures believers of God's control over all circumstances and His ability to accomplish His divine purposes.

Relation to Other Names of God:

El Elyon is often used in conjunction with other names of God, such as Yahweh (LORD) and El Shaddai (God Almighty), to provide a fuller understanding of His character. While El Elyon emphasizes God's supreme position, Yahweh highlights His covenantal relationship with His people, and El Shaddai underscores His power and sufficiency.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the title El Elyon would have been understood as a declaration of God's superiority over the pantheon of gods worshiped by surrounding nations. By using this title, the biblical authors assert the uniqueness and unrivaled status of the God of Israel.

Application for Believers:

For believers, the name El Elyon serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the assurance that He is in control of all things. It encourages trust in His sovereignty and inspires worship and reverence for His majesty. Recognizing God as El Elyon invites believers to submit to His will and find peace in His supreme governance.  - Topical Bible

Exodus 3:14 

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.

Deuteronomy 7:9

Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments;

Psalm 90:2

2 Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God.

Isaiah 43:10

10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, And my servant whom I have chosen: That ye may know and believe Me, And understand that I AM He: Before Me there was no God formed, Neither shall there be after Me.

The Eternal Nature of God’s Existence

We can marvel at the eternal nature of God’s existence. He always was, always is, and always will be. This eternal aspect confirms His unchanging nature, a comforting truth for us. God is above time and space, existing beyond what we know. This helps us understand that our lives fit within His grand design, which stretches across time. It inspires us to trust that God will fulfill His promises in His perfect timing. We can embrace every moment, knowing we are apprentices of an eternal God. - The Bible Repository

Genesis 1:1

1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

John 1:1–3 

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made.

Colossians 1:16–17

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: 17 And he is before all things, and by Him all things consist.

Hebrews 1:1–2

1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by Whom also He made the worlds;

1 Timothy 1:17 

17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Timothy 6:16

16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; Whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to Whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

The "ONE GOD" WHO IS a PLURALITY (TRI-UNE) – a DIVINE SOCIETY of THREE, but ONE – in CHARACTER, PURPOSE, and MIND –ETERNAL, and IMMORTAL, Whose life is "original, unborrowed, and underived," the ETERNAL SINGULARITY.

John 5:39

39 Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.

John 17:3 

3 And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the Only True God, and Jesus Christ, Whom Thou hast sent.

Jeremiah 24:7

7 And I will give them an heart to know Me, that I Am the LORD and they shall be My people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto Me with their whole heart.

2 Peter 3:18 

18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 

Philippians 3:8

8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for Whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

Ephesians 4:13 

13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Ephesians 3:19 

19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Ephesians 1:17

17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him:

2 Corinthians 10:5

5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

2 Corinthians 4:6 

6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.