11 - Jehovah Shammah
Scripture Passages: Ezekiel 48:3-35, 1 Peter 2:4-9
Devotional
The prophet Ezekiel, writing during the Babylonian exile, saw a vision of a future Temple where God’s presence would return to dwell among His people. The prophet wrote, “And the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there” (Ezekiel 48:35). The Hebrew phrase here is Jehovah Shammah, meaning “The Lord is there.” This name reveals a profound truth: the presence of God transforms everything. Let’s explore what this vision means for us today.
A Revelation of Glory
Ezekiel’s vision was overwhelming. As the glory of the Lord filled the Temple, he fell on his face in worship (Ezekiel 44:4). This was no ordinary building; it symbolized God’s presence dwelling among His people. The Temple’s intricate design and vast chambers could represent all nations and peoples being united under God’s authority.
In declaring the Temple’s name, Jehovah Shammah, Ezekiel saw a future where God’s presence would define His people. This is not about a physical location but a spiritual reality. For believers today, it means that wherever God’s presence dwells—in our lives, our homes, our churches—it should be unmistakable to others. Can it be said of us, “The Lord is there”?
A Call to Holiness
God’s instruction to Ezekiel carried a warning: His presence demanded purity. The Lord declared, “No stranger, uncircumcised in heart, nor uncircumcised in flesh, shall enter into my sanctuary” (Ezekiel 44:9). God would not tolerate corruption, idolatry, or defilement in His house.
For us, this speaks to the importance of guarding our hearts and lives against anything unclean. We cannot expect to experience the fullness of God’s presence while harboring sin or complacency. As Paul reminds us, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16).
Living as a Zadok Priesthood
Ezekiel’s vision also introduced a new order of priests—those from the line of Zadok. These priests were faithful to God even when others turned to idols (Ezekiel 44:15). Zadok represents a ministry devoted to seeking God’s presence above all else.
This calling is not limited to pastors or church leaders. Peter reminds us, “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). Every believer is invited into the Zadok priesthood, a life marked by daily communion with God. This means prioritizing time in His Word, offering praise, and seeking His will. It’s not about perfection but faithfulness.
A Church Defined by His Presence
What makes a church alive is not its programs, size, or influence but the presence of God among its people. Ezekiel’s vision challenges us: Is our church a place where it can truly be said, “The Lord is there”? This depends on whether the individuals in the congregation—each of us—are carrying His presence daily.
The result of a life marked by Jehovah Shammah is unmistakable. People will notice something different. They may not articulate it this way, but they will see Christ in us. A life lived in God’s presence brings clarity, wisdom, and a holy influence to the world around us.
Jehovah Shammah is more than a name; it’s a calling. God desires for His presence to fill our lives so completely that others cannot help but notice. This begins with personal faithfulness—living as a Zadok priest, ministering first to the Lord in prayer and worship. When we do this, His presence will transform us, our homes, and our churches.
Ask yourself: Can it truly be said of my life, “The Lord is there”? If not, the invitation is open. Draw near to Him, and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Let your life reflect the glory of Jehovah Shammah so that others might see Christ in you and be drawn to His marvelous light.
Prayer:
Lord, You are Jehovah Shammah, the God who is there. Thank You for the promise of Your presence that transforms our lives, our homes, and our churches. Help us to live in a way that reflects Your holiness, guarding our hearts against sin and distractions. Teach us to minister to You first, seeking Your presence daily in prayer and worship. Let it be said of our lives and our church, “The Lord is there,” so that others may see Your glory and be drawn to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.