Someone once said, “A name should make you memorable. Mine makes people remember how much they hate spelling tests.” It’s funny how something as simple as a name can spark confusion, curiosity, or even a good laugh. But when it comes to God’s names, they’re more than just words—they reflect His character, power, and faithfulness. They reveal who He is, what He is like, and what He can do. Each name tells a story, helping us understand Him, enabling us to submit to His will, and offering strength and guidance for every situation. As Proverbs 18:10 reminds us, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”
When Life Gets Messy
But let’s face it. Knowing God’s names can feel like a distant, unrelatable concept when the dishes pile up and tempers run thin. Marriage is full of moments that can test patience, trust, love, and faith. Misunderstandings because of miscommunication can turn what started as a pleasant conversation into a full-blown argument. Financial strain can drive couples to question each other’s commitment to the relationship. Emotional wounds from long ago, left unhealed, can resurface unexpectedly. Over time, they can make the marital bond bitter. It’s moments like these that make remembering and focusing on the names of God a source of encouragement, strength, and hope.
The Power of One Name
Before we consider the many names God has revealed, it’s important to pause and remember that God’s Name—Yahweh—is powerful all by itself. The word translated “Lord” in Proverbs 18:10 is actually Yahweh. It is God’s personal, covenant name. It’s the name He gave to Moses at the burning bush, meaning “I AM.” This name speaks of God’s eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His people. Yahweh isn’t just a label or title—it represents everything God is: His character, His power, His reputation, and His unwavering love. Calling on Yahweh isn’t about reciting the right words; it’s about running to the very heart of who God is. And if just this one name brings that much safety and strength, imagine what can happen when we begin to explore the many ways Yahweh has revealed Himself—through names that speak to our deepest needs.
God’s Trustworthy Names
Take Jehovah Jireh, which means “The Lord Will Provide.” In Genesis 22, God provided a ram in place of Isaac, showing Abraham that He sees and provides for His people. In marriage, financial stress can stir anxiety and arguments, but Jehovah Jireh reminds us that God sees what we need and will provide in His time and way. Trusting Him together helps couples replace fear with faith.
Or consider Jehovah Rapha, “The Lord Who Heals.” Emotional wounds, past mistakes, or harsh words can leave scars in a relationship. But God reveals Himself as a healer. What’s more, He is not only a healer of bodies but also of hearts. Couples who lean on Jehovah Rapha invite Him into the broken places, trusting Him to restore what feels lost.
And then there’s Jehovah Shalom, “The Lord Is Peace.” In Judges 6, Gideon met God in the middle of fear and uncertainty and found peace in His presence. In marriage, peace doesn’t always mean an absence of conflict, but it does mean God’s calm presence guiding us through it. When chaos rises, Jehovah Shalom anchors couples in His peace that goes beyond understanding.
These names aren’t abstract theology. They’re practical lifelines. In the everyday messiness of marriage, God offers Himself as Provider, Healer, and Peace. His Name is a strong tower, and His names remind us that He meets us in every struggle with exactly what we need.
Conclusion
So the next time the arguments start, the bills pile up, or the past sneaks in, remember: you don’t have to face it in your own strength. Run to the Name above all names. Call on the God who provides, heals, and gives peace. His names aren’t just words to remember; they’re promises to live by.