I AM
God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.”—Exodus 3:14
Naming is a big deal—whether it is for a child, company, or pet. Parents, businessmen, and families rack their brains to choose the perfect name. From something classy to something unique, most people would like to choose a name that carries an important meaning. My Chinese name, for example, bears my parents’ aspiration for me. They wished that I would become a wise person.
In biblical times, names were also very important. When Moses met God at the burning bush and received the mission to deliver the Israelites from the powerful Pharaoh, he asked God: “What is [your] name?” (see Exodus 3:13). God replied, “I AM.” (v. 14). “I AM” speaks of a God who is eternal, self-sufficient, pre-existent, self-existent, all encompassing, and without limitation. He is the only sovereign being in the universe who is not dependent on something else for His existence. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Nothing can cause Him to act out of character or compromise His integrity.
God’s name is the unshakeable foundation of our confidence in His ongoing faithfulness. Understanding God’s name will help us trust Him with our daily affairs and carry out our responsibilities. For we know that the limitless “I AM” is with us, and He changes not.
About the author
Sim Kay Tee serves at Our Daily Bread Ministries as a Bible teacher, writer, and theological reviewer. A regular contributor to writing the insights for Our Daily Bread, Kay Tee is deeply passionate about God’s Word and teaching it to His people. He is the proud parent of three daughters and one granddaughter.
