Names of GodSample

Day 13: Jehovah Mekoddishkem – The Lord Who Sanctifies You

Devotional:

The name Jehovah Mekoddishkem (Mek-ah-dish-kem) meaning “The Lord Who Sanctifies You,” reveals a vital aspect of God’s character: He is the One who makes His people holy. To sanctify means to set apart, to make pure, and to dedicate to God’s purposes. Jehovah Mekoddishkem is not a distant observer but an active participant in transforming our lives.

In Exodus 31, God commands the Israelites to observe the Sabbath as a sign of their covenant relationship and holiness. This Sabbath rest was more than a day off; it symbolized their being set apart for God’s service and reflecting God’s rest after creation. God’s holiness is contagious; He calls us into a life shaped and defined by His character.

God’s Sanctifying Work in History

Throughout the Old Testament, God’s people were called to holiness, to be different from the nations around them by living under God’s laws and moral standards. Jehovah Mekoddishkem was the source of their ability to live holy lives. The Israelites’ identity depended on being sanctified by God, a process involving separation from sin and dedication to God’s covenant.

Sanctification was both positional (set apart by God) and progressive (growing more like Him over time). The Sabbath observance reminded them of this ongoing journey of holiness.

Sanctification in the New Testament

In the New Testament, sanctification becomes a central theme in the Christian life. Believers are called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). Sanctification is both a one-time and lifelong event. When we accept Christ, we are positionally sanctified, but we are also called to grow in holiness daily through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem continues to work, shaping us into the image of Christ. He purifies our hearts, transforms our minds, and equips us to live for His glory.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

God’s sanctifying work is not done by human effort alone. The Holy Spirit is the agent of sanctification, working within us to convict, guide, and empower us to live holy lives.

Paul reminds believers that the Spirit produces fruit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities mark the holy life God desires for us, evidence of Jehovah Mekoddishkem’s work within.

Living as God’s Set-Apart People

To live under the name Jehovah Mekoddishkem means embracing our identity as God’s holy people. It means choosing daily to reject sin and pursue righteousness.

Sanctification is not about legalism or earning God’s favor but about responding in gratitude to God’s grace. It is an ongoing surrender to God’s transforming power.

Practical Steps Toward Sanctification

• Daily surrender: Commit your day to God and invite Him to sanctify your thoughts, words, and actions.
• Scripture immersion: Let God’s Word renew your mind and shape your character.
• Prayer and dependence: Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength.
• Community: Surround yourself with believers who encourage holiness and accountability.

Prayer:

Jehovah Mekoddishkem, Lord who sanctifies me, thank you for setting me apart and making me holy. I cannot do this alone and need your Spirit to transform me. Help me to live each day in surrender, allowing you to purify my heart and guide my steps. Teach me to walk in holiness as an act of love and gratitude. May my life reflect your glory and point others to you. It is in the name of Jesus we pray, amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. How do you experience God’s sanctifying work in your daily life?
2. What areas of your life need surrender to God’s transforming power?
3. How can you cultivate habits that encourage growth in holiness?