“And Moses built an altar and called its name, The-Lord-Is-My-Banner (Jehova-Nissi).” Exodus 17:15
A few months ago the kids and I were reading this chapter in Exodus and researching the significance of a banner in the time of the Israelites. Nations marched into battle with their flags overhead, eventually waving them proudly when they won. After this particular victory, Moses was moved to proclaim “Jehova-Nissi” or “The Lord is my Banner.” Moses seems to be stating his awareness that God was the only reason he was successful- not because his military was so powerful, not because he was a great leader, not because he came from the greatest nation.
As I stopped to contemplate how this relates to me I realized that I have often been tempted to raise various banners in my life. I have wanted to lift my own name high more times than I can count, claiming I was the reason for an accomplishment. I have attempted to hide under particular banners as well, hoping for protection. These banners have included my country, a leader or president, a doctor, my job, a way of educating, or even some other method of living. However, when people see me I want them to see that the banner I am waving loud and proud is only that of my Lord Jesus Christ. I don’t want to be known as the homeschooling mom, the essential oil mom, or the mom who supports a certain political figure. My hope is not in any of those things. I will not put my trust in anything or anyone other than God. He alone is my salvation. He alone gave His Son to die for me. I want to be known as the one who follows and obeys the One True Almighty God.
I pray that in these times God allows my children and others to see His banner alone waving over my life. And when God graciously grants me any small or great victory, may I give all the glory back to Him, because there is nothing mighty, powerful, or capable in me without Him.
Thank you, Father, for the great privilege of taking protection under Your banner. I pray that each of us come to know You as our Jehova-Nissi, and that we raise Your name high. May we be aware that the promises You have given in scripture are for those who follow You whole-heartedly. Keep us from the temptation of trusting in ourselves or other things to save us. Give us a boldness as we follow You into the battles of this life. You alone are the One True God, and we want You to be Lord of everything we do. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7
“Then I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart.” Jeremiah 24:7
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12