Names of GodSample

Day 7: El Olam – The Everlasting God

Devotional:

El Olam means “The Everlasting God” or “God of Eternity.” It points to God’s unending existence, timelessness, immutability, and eternal faithfulness. Unlike everything around us that is fleeting, changeable, and temporary, El Olam is the One who was before time began and who will never cease to be.

Abraham’s use of this name at Beersheba came during a pivotal moment of settling and covenant; he planted a tree, symbolizing permanence and hope. In calling God El Olam, Abraham expressed his trust in a God whose promises and presence extend beyond the boundaries of time.

El Olam Reminds Us That God Is Eternal

In a world that is constantly changing, seasons, circumstances, relationships, health, and emotions, there is a deep longing for stability. El Olam assures us that God does not change. He is the eternal constant to which we can anchor our lives.

Psalm 90:2 (NIV) says, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” Our God transcends time. He exists outside of it and holds it in His hands.

This eternal nature of God is not just a theological concept; it’s a source of comfort. When you feel overwhelmed by change, uncertainty, or loss, remember El Olam is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

El Olam Means God’s Promises Are Sure

The everlasting nature of God guarantees that His promises endure forever. When God promises provision, protection, or salvation, He is not speaking of a temporary or conditional blessing but of an eternal reality.

Abraham’s trust in El Olam meant he could count on God’s covenant despite years of waiting. Even when the promise seemed impossible, El Olam’s eternal nature meant the promise was secure.

God’s faithfulness is never limited by time. His covenant with us is eternal, sealed by the blood of Jesus and guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. You can stand on the promises of El Olam with confidence.

El Olam Provides Hope Beyond Today

The name El Olam gives us hope that transcends the immediate present. Life can be hard, and circumstances often feel like they will last forever. But El Olam invites us to look beyond today’s struggles to the eternal future.

Jesus promised eternal life to all who believe (John 3:16). El Olam is the God who opens the door to everlasting life, a life that will never end, filled with peace and joy in His presence.

When life feels overwhelming, when pain and loss threaten to consume us, remembering El Olam reminds us that this world is not our final home. Our God reigns forever, and we have a hope that will not fade.

El Olam Calls Us to Live with Eternal Perspective

Knowing God as El Olam calls us to live with eternity in mind. It shapes our priorities, decisions, and how we view suffering.

If God is everlasting, our lives are part of His eternal story. Our faith, obedience, and love matter forever. This perspective helps us endure trials and seek what is lasting rather than fleeting.

It also invites us to share the eternal hope of God with others, to witness His everlasting love and grace in a world searching for permanence.

Prayer:

Everlasting God, El Olam, you are beyond time, unchanging and eternal. Thank you for your promises that never fail and your love that never ends. When I face uncertainty and change, help me anchor my soul in your unchanging nature. Teach me to live with eternity in my heart, trusting your faithfulness through every season. May I reflect your everlasting hope to those around me. It is in the name of Jesus we pray, amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does God’s eternal nature provide comfort amid life’s uncertainties?
2. What promises of God do you need to hold onto today because His everlasting faithfulness backs them?
3. How can an eternal perspective influence the way you handle temporary struggles?