Names of GodSample

Day 26: Jehovah Shammah – The Lord Is There

Devotional:

At the close of Ezekiel’s prophetic visions, after chapters filled with judgment, destruction, exile, and eventually the promise of restoration, a name is given to the future city of God: Jehovah Shammah – The Lord Is There. This name doesn't describe a location; it defines a relationship.

Jehovah Shammah in Jewish History

God had once dwelled visibly among His people in the tabernacle and later in Solomon’s temple. But because of Israel's rebellion, the glory of God departed from the temple (Ezekiel 10). It was a devastating moment, not just the loss of a building, but the departure of God's presence.

Yet God, rich in mercy and steadfast in love, promised to return. And not only to return, but to remain. In the vision described in Ezekiel 40–48, the prophet sees a renewed temple and a renewed city and hears its name: Jehovah Shammah.

This name is the answer to exile. It is the assurance that God has not abandoned His people. It speaks to God's faithfulness, nearness, and unchanging commitment to dwell with His people.

Jesus as Jehovah Shammah

The fulfillment of Jehovah Shammah comes to life in Jesus. In John 1:14, we read, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." The Greek word for "dwelt" literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Jesus is God with us, the presence of Jehovah Shammah embodied.

After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, God sent the Holy Spirit to dwell in the hearts of believers. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). God's presence is no longer confined to a building or city. He is with us always.

Jehovah Shammah in the Future

But the promise doesn’t end there. Revelation 21:3 (NIV) looks forward to the ultimate fulfillment: “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people.” The story of Scripture ends where it began, with God dwelling with His people. This dwelling is the heartbeat of Jehovah Shammah.

What does this mean for you today? It means God is present in your confusion, loneliness, grief, and joy. He is not far off. You don’t have to summon Him or earn His attention. The Lord is there. In your home. In your workplace. In your prayer closet. In your storm. In your stillness.

This name also calls us to reflect God's presence to others. As God draws near to us, we are called to draw near to those in need. Our lives, marked by love, hospitality, and grace, can become places where people sense God is there.

Wherever you go today, go with the confidence that you never go alone. Jehovah Shammah walks with you. His presence surrounds you. And His promise remains: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5 – MEV)

Prayer:

Jehovah Shammah, thank you for always being present. Even when I cannot feel you, you are near. In my sorrow and my joy, you remain. Help me to live each day aware of your presence and to reflect your nearness to others. Be glorified in my life as I walk with you. It is in the name of Jesus we pray, amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. When have you most clearly felt the presence of God in your life?
2. How can you remind yourself daily that Jehovah Shammah is near?
3. In what ways can your life be a reflection of God’s presence to others around you?