No 6

(El Shaddai)

Up until now we have seen names of God that contain only one word : Jehovah, Elohim, etc. Here is the first compound name of God: El Shaddai. We see the familiar “El” that expresses God’s greatness and glory; we will now look at the second part of this name of God “Shaddai”. This word signifies the nourishing, supplying and satisfying character of God; so when it’s connected to the other part we realize that God is an almighty supplier and is all sufficient. There is, in a way, a dual meaning to the second name : it is also used to convey the judging, chastening and purging character of God. Even in this context, the ultimate purpose is one of love and mercy. To experience the fullness of God we must let go of ourselves; we give in to God in order to live a fuller life for Him. Jesus, during His earthly ministry echoed this when He said: “27 and whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27). So it is that the name El Shaddai speaks as much about God’s blessings and mercy as it does His chastening in order to open us up to receiving those wonderful things He desires to give us; things such as peace, joy, blessed hope and forgiveness. True Christians are His beloved children and He pours out sustenance and blessings to them.