Let's start a spiritual adventure and talk about the story of Moses and God at the burning bush. God told Moses His name: "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14). This isn't just a name; it's a clue to God's nature and power. We're going to dig into what "I AM" means and how it affects us.
Point 1: God is Eternal - "I AM"
When God calls Himself "I AM," He's saying that He's not bound by time. Unlike us, God isn't stuck in the past, present, or future. Understanding that God is always there can make us feel secure. God is like a sturdy anchor when our lives feel stormy.
Believing in God's timelessness helps us stop worrying about what has happened and what will happen. We can trust that our lives are going as planned by God, freeing us from stress.
God Doesn't Need Anything - "I AM"
"I AM" also means that God doesn't need anything or anyone. He has infinite power. We rely on lots of things and people, but God doesn't.
Thinking about God's self-reliance shows us how much we need Him. It's humbling to realize that everything we have comes from Him. Understanding this challenges us to stop trying to do everything ourselves and trust in God's grace.
In Moses' story, his staff changes into a snake. This sign shows us that God can use simple things to do amazing acts. It's a reminder that God can use us to carry out His plans, even though we're not perfect. Like the staff that became a snake, God invites us to join His mission and let His power work through us.
A.W. Tozer said, "God isn't greater if we revere Him, nor less if we ignore Him. He is what He is, independent of any other."
Point 2: God is Personal - "I AM"
God isn't just some distant being. "I AM" means that He is involved in our lives and cares about us deeply. He's like a loving parent to us.
Knowing God in this personal way helps us to trust Him completely. We can tell Him anything, because He listens. We can ask Him for guidance, because He knows what's ahead. This lets us experience His love in every part of our lives.
Moses' hand gets a disease called leprosy, and then it heals. This miracle shows that God has the power to make us well.
God wants to heal our bodies and spirits. He offers us healing and new beginnings. We can give our problems to Him and trust that He will make us whole.
Point 3: God is in Control - "I AM"
"I AM" means that God has total power. He controls everything in the universe. Knowing this can give us strong faith.
In Moses' story, the Nile River changes into blood. This sign shows God's control over the world and His ability to bless or punish.
God is in control of everything in our lives. Even when things are tough, He guides us to where we need to be. The Bible says in Isaiah 46:9-10: "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"
According to research from Baylor University, people who believe in a God who is involved in everything have less stress and better mental health. Just like how a cup only feels heavy if you hold it for a long time, our problems feel lighter when we trust in God.
John Paton was a missionary in the New Hebrides islands. One night, he and his wife were surrounded by people who wanted to hurt them. They prayed all night for God to save them. When morning came, they were surprised that the people had left. A year later, the leader of the people became a Christian. When Paton asked why he didn't attack, the leader said he saw hundreds of men with swords protecting Paton's home. Paton knew there were no men there, but this story shows that God is in control and protects us.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "I AM" tells us a lot about God. It shows us that He is timeless, doesn't need anything, is personal, and is in control. Understanding "I AM" can help us feel comforted, confident, and happy about our relationship with God. As we go through life, let's remember the power of God's name "I AM."
