Names of God (Old Testament)نموونە

Jehovah-Nissi: God is my banner

You really need to read the whole of chapter 17. What a battle! The short story – while Moses raised his hands holding God’s staff, the Israelites were winning. If he lowered his arms, the Amalekites would start to win.

After a MacGyver-like move to keep Moses’ arms up, the Israelites won a decisive battle against the Amalekites. Moses built an altar and named it Jehovah Nissi—the Lord is my Banner.

In ancient times, a banner or flag was a standard raised high during battles, symbolising victory, rallying troops, and serving as a focus point. Our God in Exodus is our protector and leader. However, a banner also serves as a guide, indicating direction and leadership. For the Israelites and for us, if we look to God, we will find direction and support. Banners often represent identity and unity for a group. By declaring God as our banner, we affirm their identity in Him and our collective faith and dependence on God.

Raising a banner is an act of proclamation and trust. When Moses named the altar ‘Jehovah Nissi,’ it was an expression of faith that acknowledged God’s sovereignty and expressed trust in Him.

May the banner you take into the battles and journey of your life, the banner you raise in the good and the bad times, be the true, victorious, protector, guide, and unifying God of the Bible.

Written by AARON WRIGHT