Devotionals
Jehovah-Shallom !
I watched a short video clip where a Minister tried to interpret this scripture by saying that the name Gideon gave referred to the altar,and not Jehovah. That’s an error of reference. It may sound sweet for academic argument. I have stated somewhere in my book: ”The Power of the Altar”, that an altar is just an ordinary place without its deity. I know what we are talking about, because, there’s a preponderance of altars in Africa. The name Jehovah-Shalom refers to the Power behind the altar and not altar. Here’s how Steve Moody and Erk Jones of Amazing Grace life describe it: ”El, YHWH is also used in conjunction with other attributes of God to form other derivatives of the name YHWH.” There’s no reference in Hebrew of that name being given to inanimate things. At some other time God may demonstrate a different attitude acquiring new names: El-Shaddai, Rappha, Niissi, Tsidkenu, Saba (host). Grant Ethridge concludes the matter nicely: ” God reveals Himself to us through His names. God is not only our Creator, but He is also our Victory, Shepherd, Righteousness, Healer, Holiness, and Provider.” Today, He is God, our peace. In Israel, Shalom is used also as greeting and a blessing. It means peace in the midst of turmoil, chaos, doubts and fear. Gideon had Gods assurance of peace that he saw God and did not die. That Angel is the Old Testament explanation of the appearance of Jesus. Today, He is still our peace. When life wants to swallow you, remember: He is our peace.