April 5 -- "Jehovah Nissi"

 Today's Reading: Exodus 16-17

"Jehovah Nissi"

After the battle with the Amalekites, Moses built an altar to commemorate the victory and named it "The LORD Is My Banner" to acknowledge that God had been their banner or standard in the battle, the one who had given them the victory.

In historical military contexts, banners were used as a means of identifying troops on the battlefield. They were often emblazoned with the emblem or coat of arms of a particular noble or royal family and were carried into battle by the soldiers who fought under that banner. In this sense, the banner served as a symbol of loyalty and allegiance to a particular leader or cause.

The phrase “The LORD is my banner” in today’s verse is a combination of two Hebrew words: "Yahweh" or "Jehovah," which is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Scriptures, and "Nissi," which means "my banner" or "my refuge." Thus, one of the many names or titles of God is “Jehovah-Nissi” – The LORD my banner.

There are several other "Jehovah" names in the Hebrew Bible that refer to different attributes or characteristics of God. Here are some examples:

Jehovah Jireh: "The LORD will provide" (Genesis 22:14)
Jehovah Rapha: "The LORD who heals" (Exodus 15:26)
Jehovah Shalom: "The LORD is peace" (Judges 6:24)
Jehovah Sabaoth: "The LORD of hosts" (1 Samuel 1:3)
Jehovah Rohi: "The LORD is my shepherd" (Psalm 23:1)
Jehovah Tsidkenu: "The LORD our righteousness" (Jeremiah 23:6)

Each of these names reveals a different aspect of God's character or nature, and they can help us to better understand and appreciate who God is and what He has done for us.

This name "The LORD Is My Banner" reflects the Israelites' recognition of God's rulership and power. They acknowledged that their success in battle came from relying on God and following His lead, and not from their own strength or prowess. It should serve as a reminder to us that we are God's chosen people, that we fight under His Name, and that He will always be with us to protect and guide us through our battles in life.