“And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day, “In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”
Genesis 22:14
Jehova Jireh, or literally “The-Lord-Will-Provide” is a just another of many different and wonderful names for the One true God. This particular name was formed from the proclamation of faith Abraham made to Isaac in verse eight. This particular dub is similar to when Hagar referred to God as “The-God-Who-Sees” (16:13), both were in a tight spot between life and death, and Jesus draws near, sees the need (Jehova Elroi), and provides for the need (Jehova Jireh). As I reflect on the names and the character of God; I’m often reminded of times in life where I’ve wondered if God was paying any attention to my predicament, if He saw my need, and whether or not He would provide. As I came to find out, the answer to all of these questions is found at the cross.
Whenever I question God’s instructions, or perhaps I feel as though I’m only being led to the slaughter in my personal situation, the cross always speaks a reminder of peace and hope into my life. For it was there that the Lord provided, and “as it is said to this day” God has never let us down.
“But God has let me down, Dan!” you say.
“I’ve been robbed, cheated, and shorthanded plenty of times in my life!” you might think.
The fact of the matter is “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken and shall he not make it good?” (Numbers 23:19) so that makes me wonder what it was that you didn’t receive.
Perhaps what you thought was your need was simply a want, and God knowing best knew that it wasn’t best for you. You see, that is the amazing truth about God! He loves you and will always lead you to the blessing regardless of what you think to be best.
So the next time you pray and begin to think, “Man! God didn’t answer my prayer!”
Remember that He has!
It may be that God has simply delayed or developed your answer in a different way than what you had expected. (James 4:2-3)
