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Scripture:
Genesis 17:1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty]; walk before me faithfully and be blameless.
Observation:
God first revealed Himself to Abraham, then He reveal His covenant to Him. The phrase “God Almighty” is the Hebrew name for God, El Shaddai. El – meaning God, Shad – meaning breast, & Ai – which is a suffix meaning multiple or many. El Shaddai can be directly translated “The Many Breasted One” but that does not capture the whole meaning. The word also connotes strength in action or mighty. That is why it is translated God Almighty. It may seem strange, but if you think about it – it makes perfect sense. God created both male and female in His image. Therefore, God is neither but has characteristics of both male and female. He is mighty and nurturing and there is room for many.
Application:
We have a tendency to over-simplify things. We certainly do that with God. We understand us, so in an attempt to understand Him we try to make Him look like us. He is not male or female like we are. We are actually pieces of the puzzle that must be fit together to reveal the image of God.
We must thank God for His strength and power, as well as His comfort and love.
Prayer:
Lord, I love You. Thank You for today. I need Your love and your correction, You are nurturing and Your strength. You are compassionate and mighty. Help me to see You in a bigger and greater way today. Amen.
Worship: