YAHWEH: I AM THAT I AM

“This is the history of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens,” (Genesis‬ ‭2:4‬‬).

When first introduced to God in Genesis, He is Elohim—the great God. In Genesis One, we have an overview of the creation of all things, and so this name of God befits the creative power of God. Then, in Genesis Two, the name Yahweh is introduced, in conjunction with Elohim, as the focus of the narrative shifts to the making of man as the pinnacle of God’s creation—the one made in His image. Thus, Yahweh is brought to the fore in that this name emphasizes the covenant relationship of God. This is how God revealed Himself to His people—the sacred name above all names. The world may know of His existence and power as Elohim. His people know of His presence and love for them as Yahweh.

The name means, “I AM,” and is indicated in English translations as “LORD.”  Whenever you see God’s sacred name in all capital letters, it is the Hebrew, “Yahweh.”  Moses would write this name first in Genesis, as it had been revealed to him in the wilderness of Sinai, as God spoke to Him from the burning bush.

“Then Moses said to God, ‘Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, “The God of your fathers has sent me to you,” and they say to me, “What is His name?” what shall I say to them?’ And God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’ And He said, ‘Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, “I AM has sent me to you.”’” (Exodus‬ ‭3:13-14‬)

As the great I AM—He is that He is. Yahweh is self-existent and eternal—uncreated and Creator of all. There has never been a time when God was not, nor will there be a time He will not be. He just is, “I AM.”  God needs nothing to sustain Him and nothing exists that He does not sustain. God is transcendent—above and beyond creation. Yahweh is immutable—unchanging.

In these ever changing times, is it not wonderful to know that we have a God that does not change—who cannot change?  This God is Yahweh, who has chosen us for a covenant relationship with Himself. Are you in that love relationship with Him?

For further study, you might read or listen to this excellent devotional by John Piper:
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/10-things-yahweh-means