Where does your god get his characteristics from?

Question

Gods are variously depicted as loving, hateful, kind, sadistic, jealous, angry, needy, vengeful etc. - whatever you think your god is like, where do these characteristics come from? What made him the way he is, rather than some other way? Why not a laid back, free-love, lazy kind of god who can't really be bothered with our problems, for example?

nondescript: I think you're right.

primoa: That's a non-answer.

Rev: Definitely. Gods reflect the people who invent them.

Answer 1

From the people who make them up. Many are modeled after the draconian leaders of the day.

Answer 2

When I was a young man, it took me a long time to admit this to myself. The god of the people around me seemed to be the very picture of a tyrant one would find in some ancient desert culture. ALL the features were there - the need for total loyalty on pain of death and adulation, the idea that his word was law - regardless of how arbitrary or absurd, that all enemies were toast, and on and on - and with weapons of mass destruction!

UPDATE: Hey Rob! Why didn't you include some of your favorite recipes too, and an account of what you did last summer!

Answer 3

Himself

Answer 4

They say that god created man in their image. (Yes. No typos there. I said "their".)

Methinks it's the other way around, and it's actually quite obvious if one takes the time to investigate the Bible's internal logic coupled with the things done in the name of said god throughout history.

Answer 5

He is God.

He always was....and always will be.

He has no beginning...and He has no end.

He is eternal...His characteristics are His own.......not created by anybody.

Answer 6

we cant know He was always alive!!!

Answer 7

When you diligently study all that is in The Bible, you find your God is an awesome Being. He is a God composed of SPIRIT, WIND, and LIGHT. Now, you are ready to learn what His character is like – and what type of personality He has. You will learn about God’s basic nature – and how He thinks. You will see how He reacts to various situations, and the full meanings and definitions of His names or titles. You will not only understand God, but you will finally comprehend His Great Plan for the billions of individuals He has created.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

When a child is born, parents spend a considerable amount of time choosing the right name for the infant. They carefully consider each of the meanings of the different names. God, also, is very selective when He chooses names for His children.
Beginning with Adam, the very first man, God chose the appropriate name. In Hebrew, the name Adam means “red earth” – because he was created from red earth. Eve came out of Adam’s body. Eve means “mother of all Creation or life.” God named them for what they were. God describe titles or names of what a particular person is – or represents.

Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
Another example is when David married Abigail. Originally, she was married to Nabal, who was killed because he acted unwisely. Nabal’s name means “fool.” Although Abigail was an honorable woman, she married a fool. She learned from her mistake because, later, she became the wife of David.
So it is with God’s various titles or names. There are two ways you can find the meaning of His names. The first method is by reading the context. When a specific name for God is mentioned, it is used in reference to what He is talking about. You must discern the context in which God’s title (name) is used. Keep in mind, God has many powers and abilities. In carrying out His various PURPOSES, He specifies what they mean through His various titles or names.

TO REALLY KNOW GOD

If you really want to know as much as you can about God, He has left all the pieces of His puzzle for you to assemble. In order to understand His various titles or names through the context of a given subject, you must be a good detective in compiling all the facts. The second method is to go to the Hebrew in The Old Testament and to the Greek in The New Testament in order to obtain THE TRUE MEANING of particular or key words that are used in the translation of The King James Version.

A greater understanding comes through the true meanings of God’s various titles or names. In The Old Testament there are seven basic designations used for God. However, only two names have been translated or used in The Old and New Testaments for all these seven titles.

The translation uses only two names: God or Lord. Nevertheless, there are seven different and meaningful titles that are used when God’s name is mentioned. The meanings of these seven different titles or names tell you what He is really like – and which fully explain His Plan.

ELOHIM

Genesis 1:26 is a famous verse. Here the true meaning for God is distinct, explanatory, and carries a great meaning. “26And God said….” The word God in the Hebrew comes from “Elohim.” “El,” in Hebrew, means “mighty.”

When you see El, it conveys God as “mighty.” But the word “Elohim” is a plural word, which translates to “manifesting a multiplicity” or “plurality of God.” Elohim can, also, mean “angels,” “elders,” or “judges.”

Christians get confused with this meaning and come up with two or three gods – hence the more common “trinity.” But the name Elohim carries a far bigger connotation than referring to separate individuals. The verse in question goes on to say: “26And God said, Let us make man in our image.” To whom is He talking?
The Bible tells you that in the beginning The Word was with God, and The Word was God. Does this mean that God and Christ were sitting down, and having a serious talk together? That may seem logical – however, in this verse, He was referring to many more beings than just two beings having a conversation between themselves.

How many other entities look like God and The Word? Perhaps the 24 elders? Note: The word “image” not only means “shadow,” or “not quite real,” but also a “phantom.” When God said, “to make man in our image,” He created this shadow to look like a human. (Note: this is very different from where Christ is a “stamped impress” of The Father as mentioned in Hebrews 1.)

God, as ELOHIM, could well include 24 ELDERS, and also, perhaps, THE ANGELS. This conversation was about creating others who resembled God, or who were made in God’s image. When God stated, “Let us,” He was talking about THE GODHEAD. He was making man as a “phantom” or an image, giving him the responsibility to be placed over everything He had created on the earth.

Genesis 2:18 And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help mate for him.
In Genesis you learn what Elohim is thinking about. “And the Lord God.” Translated from the Hebrew, this is “Adoni Elohim.” (Adoni’s name will be explained later, which will add a greater meaning than Master.) “18And the Lord God [or The Master Elohim] said it is not good that man should be alone;…” This gives you a little insight into how God thinks. He said it is not good for those who are made in His image “to be alone.”

A FEMALE HELPER

Realize that God is good and that He had a specific reason for not wanting Adam to be alone. His intent was always to procreate Himself. When He said it is not good for man to be alone, God was allowing you to know His thoughts. He was telling you something very important – “That the man should not be alone, I will make him a help mate for him.”
God believes not only in reproducing Himself, but extends that reproduction power to those who have been created in His image. Then they will have the same kind of reproduction as He does. This is a fantastic and precious gift. It is The Gift To Create Life.

Genesis 2:21-24 21And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept; and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 22And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 23And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

This is God’s thinking. God did this. This wasn’t Adam. In God’s terms, you cannot reproduce better than by duplicating what has come out of The One who has brought you into being. God tells this in the next verse: “24Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one flesh.”

God is One. You are becoming One with God. God says it is not good for a being to dwell alone. He says a man should have a helpmate. The best way to accomplish this it is to reproduce yourself with the same genes. You could call it Spiritual DNA, which might be a good term.

MOTHER OF ALL CREATION

Since Eve is the mother of all creation, and Adam was the first type of Christ, then Adam could have been The Savior. Eve, being his wife, and mother of all future children, would have been compared to The Church. Adam would have ended up being Christ – or The Savior of The World. This was an opportunity he was given. But Adam failed to qualify.

After Adam failed, another seed had to come who was Jesus Christ in the flesh. He came to fulfill the role of The Savior. Then, there needed to be a helpmate for The Savior, which is The Church. All of this is embodied in The Title, Elohim. The word, Elohim, shows a plurality of reproducing Himself in all of His Creation (I Corinthians 15:28).

This title, Elohim, manifests God as reproducing Himself. Adam, along with his helpmate (Eve), could have been “the saviors of the world.” Adam would have been The Savior – and Eve would have been The Mother of The Whole World. This is a very large concept to embrace, but it is a critical message that comes through many Scriptures in The Bible.

GOD, ABRAHAM, & COVENANTS

Genesis 17:3-7 3And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying, 4As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations. 5Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. 6And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee and kings shall come out of thee. 7And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.

A Covenant had to be reintroduced so everything could be done in a proper way: “3And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying, 4As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations.” The Hebrew word “Elohiym” breaks down in the following way: “El” means “mighty” and “hiym” means “plural” – or a “love covenanting” God. All this means is “God in Covenant.”
Elohim not only means plural (many), but, also, means that He enters into “Covenants” or “Agreements.” The title Elohim encompasses “mighty,” “plural,” or “love covenanting.” It, also, means “entering into an agreement” with Abraham – through whom The Promise Seed would come – which is The Promise of Christ. Notice, there is no Israel or Chosen People at this time.
God speaks as Elohim, communicating to the whole world. “5Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. 6And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee. 7And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting [age lasting] covenant [agreement], to be a God [Elohim] unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.” When God uses the name Elohim, He uses it in reference to the universe – or to the entire creation. God will be “all and in all.”

Ephesians 3:9-15 9And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, 11According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord; 12In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. 13Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. 14For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.

When explaining Paul’s responsibility, He says: “9And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world.”

This mystery started from the beginning of the world, with Adam and Eve under Elohim. Paul said: “…hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ [The Word]: 10To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.”

THE ETERNAL PURPOSE WHEN GOD REVEALS WHO HE IS, WHAT HE IS, AND HOW HE THINKS, HE IS GIVING YOU HIS WISDOM: “11According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. 13Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulation for you, which is your glory. 14For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.”

The Greek word for “family” is “Patrea,” “Our Father.” As you can see, when God said, “Let us make man in our image,” He was talking to a large number of beings. He is referring to his future PURPOSE or PLAN. Elohim refers to God’s objective to create a Universal Family – Sons of God – to complete His work according to His Word. God, will then, be “all and in all.”
Hebrews 10:1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. Everything in The Law is a shadow – which gives the basic instructions about Christ and The Father. In Romans, Paul explains that “the invisible things” of God are perceived in “the physical elements” which a person can observe in the world.

Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

God is, Elohim, in everyone. So the name “Elohim” means God “is all” and “in all.” It is plural in Purpose. God is in all – and He is all encompassing. When He uses His title Elohim, He is talking about everything He created.

EVERYTHING IN HEAVEN & EARTH

That is why Paul said: “Everything that is named in Heaven and in Earth is named after this name.” Rightly so, since He created everything, and He upholds everything that is. If He didn’t uphold all the things that exist, then, where would you be? No one would be here. Whenever God uses the title Elohim, He is talking about His completeness as God. God is All. The plural God, or the all-encompassing God, is a Godhead for whom the entire Heaven and Earth are named. Everywhere in The Old Testament, Elohim is speaking in the “universal” sense. This is the reason He made The Covenant with Abraham. It was a Universal Covenant. It was covering all nations through The One Seed (I Corinthians 15:22), which was going to come through Abraham. That was The Promise. So God’s “thought processes” consist of the concept that He knows it is not good for man to be alone – so God is reproducing Himself.

When they accused Christ of calling Himself The Son of God, Jesus said, “Aren’t you called gods?” (John 10:34). They all came from God. Paul said that The Word was with God and The Word was God. Everything is God. There remains just one God – regardless of the 24 elders. This is all in The Godhead (God is all). Each time God speaks universally, He uses His title or name, Elohim as “possessor,” “maker,” and “creator of all.” This is how God thinks. Therefore, all of God’s titles and names tell you exactly what He is like or what He is doing at a designated time.

YHWH (JHVH) – THE RIGHTEOUS GOD

Exodus 3:14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. The name YHWH (JHVH) causes a considerable degree of trouble for some individuals. Frankly, many people create various religious beliefs out of what they think this means. YHWH (JHVH) means “the existing one” – or the “I Am that I Am.” Some people think that you should only use this particular name to address God as The Existing One – “I Am that I Am.” But, this is not true. God has many titles (names) because He has many powers. He used “I Am that I Am” for Israel. In Exodus 3:14, Moses was attempting to back out of the job God assigned to him. God said, “I want you to go and set My people free. Go talk to Pharaoh.” Moses said, “I can’t even talk.” Then Moses asks: “Who shall I say sent me?” The “One” who will send Moses is the same God as Elohim – only this time God is focusing upon a nation with a specific “Purpose” in mind.
God is not speaking here in a universal sense – or about all of humanity. He is referring to a nation that will perform a task according to His will. He is dealing with Israel, personally, as their God. That is why He used a different name. “14…And God [Elohim] said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM:” (YHWH or JHVH).

UNKNOWN PRONUNCIATION

No one knows the pronunciation of this name because no vowels exist –only consonants. “And he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Now what did He want them to do?

Exodus 3:18 And they shall hearken to thy voice: and thou shalt come, thou and the elders of Israel, unto the king of Egypt, and ye shall say unto him, The Lord God of the Hebrews hath met with us: and now let us go, we beseech thee, three days’ journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.
The reason God wanted the children of Israel to come out of Egypt was for them to begin sacrificing to Him. At this time, He was playing a totally different role. What type of role was it?
To find out, you need to examine the root of the word “JHVH” or “YHWH.” It means “righteous,” “just” and “judgmental.” This is the most common image that Christians have about God when they read The Old Testament. You have a very black-and-white type of God, with “sinners” on one side, and “the righteous” on the other side.

SUDDEN IDOLATRY

What was the first occurrence that took place when Moses went to Mt. Sinai to receive The Ten Commandments? He returned to discover that the children of Israel had turned to gross idolatry. They had created the golden calf – and were having a big party.
What did God intend to do? He was going to kill them. This is JHVH (YHWH). This is God revealing Himself as Perfect or Perfection or WITHOUT SIN. In all this, He is totally Righteous.
God has complete free choice, and by that choice He decides to be Righteous, never making mistakes. He always makes the right decision, and if anyone sins, “just punishment” must be given. This is the God that Israel knew, firsthand. JHVH (YHWH) is “judgmental” and “just.” Sinners are always punished. In The Law, which God gave to Israel, it was a Concept of Choice – whether good or evil (Deuteronomy 30:19). Later, David and The Prophets would begin to understand this mercy. Israel never understood God’s forgiveness, because they never would REPENT. ALL THEY SAW WAS THIS RIGHTEOUS, POWERFUL, JUDGMENTAL, AND JUST GOD.
To Israel, God was “a fearful Being.” In fact, because of their fear, they didn’t want Him to speak to them. God said that He had chosen to be this way because “I AM WHAT I AM,” or “I AM THAT I AM.” You are, now, beginning to see the different characteristic parts of God. It is more than Elohim, who says it is not good for man to be alone. This is a God who wants to give of Himself, as a Creator.

JHVH (YHWH) is a different side of God. It is a God who demands Perfection because God, Himself, is Perfect. But, God is, also, giving you the opportunity to become as excellent as He is. On the other hand, if you stepped in the wrong direction, you would be required to pay the consequences. This is The God of Blessings and Cursings (Deuteronomy 30).

This is The God of Israel. Israel was to be a witness of what God is to all the nations – just as The Church should be a witness for Christ. The Church should be Perfect – just as God is Perfect (Matthew 5:48). You will find that God’s name as Your Father has a different connotation from the “I Am That I Am.” That is a vital factor to consider.

TWO DIFFERENT APPROACHES

There are two different approaches about God that you should consider. The approach is spit and polish, right down the line. It leaves no margin for error. The other approach is the characteristic of being easy to entreat. He is The God who will listen to you, personally. This is another manifestation of the character and personality of God. The reason that God was found to be in the role of the “I AM THAT I AM” for Israel – was to set an example of His goodness. So, He gave them The Law. God did this because The Israelites did not know right from wrong – and were unrepentant (I Timothy 1:9-10).
The Law told them what sin was, so they would know what to do – and what not to do. God said The Law was to be Israel’s “righteousness” (Deuteronomy 6:25). He explained that if they would keep His Commandments, Statutes, and Ordinances, then, they would be a blessing to all nations. This would, also, be a way of setting an example for all the other nations. The Israelites were to make God’s name known. What name? It is JHVH (YHWH). As you go through all the various meanings of God’s seven different titles and names, and have more of an understanding of The Law, it will help you immensely as you read Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. You will understand each of God’s titles and names explain all the aspects of God’s Plans.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Thomas asked Jesus to show him The Way. “6Jesus saith unto him, ‘I am the way,’” Understand that Christianity is not a religion – It is A Way of Life. The works of The Law do not apply to Christians, because it would make this new way of life into a religion or ritual – which only points to God in Christ. There is a big difference!
Jesus said: “I am the way.” Remember, in John 6:29 that He said: “This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” And Christ said, “6I am the way.” Christ was saying that you must live as He lived and be like Him. Don’t hate anyone. Don’t covet that which belongs to someone else. Just be kind to everyone. If someone needs a coat, give him a coat. If you don’t have one, or can’t afford to buy him one, then ask a relative, a friend, or a neighbor if they have a spare coat. That is Christianity at work. Jesus literally tells you that He is The Truth (this is no lie). He is The Way for Christians to follow. Following Christ, as The Truth, is The Best and Only Way to Live. There is no other way for Christians to learn PERFECTION. No man comes unto The Father but by Christ. You now know the significance of JHVH (YHWH). “I AM WHAT I AM.” He is your Supreme example.

EL SHADDAI As discussed, “El” alone means “mighty.” Followers of Islam call God “Allah” or “El” or “The Mighty One.” But the full title is El Shaddai. “Shaddai” in Hebrew means, “the breast,” or “nurturing.” It signifies pouring out like a mother who takes the child to her breast, and nourishes the child.
Shaddai is a nurturing, loving mother. You will find that whenever the title El Shaddai is used – there is a mighty God who is giving, nourishing, and pouring out. So, El Shaddai means “powerful,” “nourishing,” and “giving.” It is a “mighty Giver who can give everything that He has” – and is.
Genesis 14:18-23 18And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. 19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: 20And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all. 21And, the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself. 22And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth. 23That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:

No human words in any language can fully describe God. Take the case where Abraham met Melchizedek, The High Priest. Why was Melchizedek, a High Priest, at that time? He was High Priest over all humanity – but especially for those who called upon The Name of The Lord. The purpose of a priest is to intercede for the sins of others. Notice, in Genesis: “18And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine [a likeness to Passover service]: And he was the priest….” Melchizedek was The Priest of El Elyon, the “giver,” the “nurturer,” or “giving of blessings.” El Elyon is The God who prospers you. This is a powerful example of that fact.
“El Shaddai” is translated in the English as “The Most High God,” “The Almighty Giver,” or “provider who blessed Abram.” And, Melchizedek “19blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, [El Shaddai] possessor of heaven and earth….” Here is El Elyon, The Nurturer, having in His dominion all the heavens, and the whole earth. From this powerful position – He was blessing Abraham. This nurturing God made Abraham rich. This is the reason why Abraham and Melchizedek met. They met for a much greater reason than you might have thought. “20And blessed be the most high God [El Shaddai], which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.”

WHY TITHE TO MELCHIZEDEK?

Why did Abraham tithe to Melchizedek? Perhaps it was a Law. But, no Law was given for another 430 years! Remember, the name of El Elyon means The One who gives all the blessings, and who pours forth all His goodness. He, also, nurtures His Creation. Everything comes from El Shaddai. The Mighty El Shaddai is the possessor of heaven and earth. Now, it says that Abraham gave tithes. He is going to tell you why he tithed to Melchizedek. It has nothing to do with The Law. “21And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.” You have to understand this first point.
The King of Sodom asked permission to keep his people – so he could still retain his kingdom. He said to take everything, which includes all the material wealth, the riches, the blessings, the food, the cattle, and the produce. What was Abraham’s reply? When you are tithing to Levi, you are left with 90%; so this was done because of The Law of tithing. If Abraham kept The Law of tithing, he should have kept the remainder of the spoils. “22And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God [El Shaddai], the possessor of heaven and earth [God has everything]. 23That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:” The reason Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek was to show that he recognized God was El Elyon, “The Giver of All Blessings.” Abraham tithed to show El Shaddai that His God prospered him, and would continue to prosper him. God will do the same for you. God wants to give everything to His Creation. And, El Shaddai was The One who made Abraham rich. That is why he tithed. This is the true meaning which is based on The Scriptures. When Jacob had his dream, God was revealing the same lesson. Jacob was running away from his brother – and was scared to death. He had nothing, so he negotiated with God, by asking God to protect him – and bring him back home, safely. Jacob knew that God was El Shaddai. So he said the same thing that Abraham said: “I’ll give you a tithe.” In other words, Jacob understood that God was The Blesser of all. God is El Shaddai, The Protector, and The God who prospered Jacob. God’s nature, personality, and character only want to give. God desires to “Give” all that He is and has. God is Agapè! This is Charity. He can do nothing but “Give.” How much does God “Give?” HE WANTS TO “GIVE” HIS CREATION EVRYTHING HE HAS.
Have you ever heard of spoiling your children or grandchildren? This is just a little of the “substance of God” in you. Who can say “No” to a grandchild when the gifts would not be harmful? Well, God can’t resist either. Christ says that if you ask for bread, will your Father give you a stone? How much more would your Heavenly Father, who is good, give you than your earthly fathers – who are but a combination of good and evil?
El Shaddai shows His character and personality. He can’t keep from GIVING. There is only one difference between God and mankind. God is good and righteous all the time – and mankind is not. God says that if you are not good, then He will discipline. God is just and humans are not. God is fair but humans are not. God is not prejudiced – but humans are. God does not discriminate – yet humans are prone to discriminate. God is much greater than anyone could ever imagine.

ELYON

Genesis 17:5 Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. Another title for God is “Elyon.” God blessed Abraham because he was The Father of all nations. God’s titles interchange at different times. When you read Genesis 14:18, you will find that He is not only “El Shaddai” – but He is “Elyon” as well. This shows you that God is a Gift-giver, in addition to the other characteristics.

“Elyon” literally means “gifts” – and “Elyon” possesses all the heavens and all the earth. Wherever the word “Elyon” is used, it means “gifts from the highest.” Elyon owns everything, and is willing to give to His Creation. Everything God gives is a “Gift.” You cannot earn nor do you deserve it. IT ALL COMES FROM GOD, “ELYON,” THE GIFT GIVER.

EL OLAM

Genesis 21:10-14 10Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac. 11And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son. 12And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called. 13And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed. 14And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beer-sheba.

Another title for God – “El Olam” – is a very significant one, which involves The Jubilee Year. This title for God explains that He is A Covenant Keeper. Abraham is talking about Hagar and Ishmael. “10Wherefore she [Sarah] said unto Abraham, cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.” El Olam is “inheritance” – “inheritor,” or “age lasting God.” It, also, means “A Covenant Keeper.” “11And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son. 12And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.”

HAGAR’S FATE

The Law of Inheritance had to go to the first-born seed of the wife. But, in this case, it was the bondwoman who bore the child for Abraham. So the child Ishmael did not have “a right” to The Inheritance. This is why God sent Hagar and Ishmael away. “13And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed.” Remember, that in Genesis 17, He (God) was “Elohim.” He covered everyone universally, though Ishmael’s seed didn’t deserve The Inheritance – because he wasn’t born of the true wife. But, God still followed through with His Promise that He would, also, make a nation out of Ishmael, and kings would come from his lineage. So, God took care of Ishmael: “14And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.”
Hagar finally got to the place where she and her son were going to die of thirst and hunger: “17And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her [don’t fear], for God hath heard the voice of the lad.” Then, God provided Hagar with a pool of water to drink.
Genesis 21:33 is the account where Abimelech recognized that God blessed Abraham, just as He blessed Ishmael who was the son of a bondwoman. “33And Abraham planted a grove in Beer-sheba, and called there on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God….”

This is El Olam or the “age-lasting” God of The Covenant Keeper of Inheritance. God’s Inheritance lasts forever! This subject matter is beginning to illustrate how “El Olam” was The One God who gives what He has – and never takes back any of The Inheritance He has promised. He keeps His Promises. You can always count on Him. God does not lie. This is another part of God’s personality. God’s personality reveals that He always lives up to His Word. In fact, His Word is forever. He is The Word. Your Father is a “continuously giving God.” God’s “giving” comes from an Inheritance that is given directly by God.

ADONAI

Ezekiel 16:1-10: 1Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, 2Son of man, cause Jerusalem to know her abominations, 3And say, Thus saith the Lord God unto Jerusalem; Thy birth and thy nativity is of the land of Canaan; thy father was an Amorite, and thy mother an Hittite. 4And as for thy nativity, in the day thou wast born thy navel was not cut, neither wast thou washed in water to supple thee; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all. 5None eye pitied thee, to do any of these unto thee, to have compassion upon thee; but thou wast cast out in the open field, to the loathing of thy person, in the day that thou wast born. 6And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live. 7I have caused thee to multiply as the bud of the field, and thou hast increased and waxen great, and thou art come to excellent ornaments: thy breasts are fashioned, and thine hair is grown, whereas thou wast naked and bare. 8Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time was the time of love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord God, and thou becamest mine. 9Then washed I thee with water, yea, I thoroughly washed away thy blood from thee, and I anointed thee with oil. 10I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with badgers’ skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk.

PROBING DEEPER

Let’s probe into a more comprehensive and significant relationship with “Adonai,” which is another of God‘s titles. Adonai is translated as “Lord” or “Master.” Every time you read the words “Lord God,” it means “The Master God” – although the word Master carries a greater significance. This is a vital perspective. There are many times when the word “Master” or “Adonai” is used in various texts. It appears when referring to human beings as masters. It carries a different connotation than just God. The meaning is “a being in charge of,” “responsible for,” or “over someone.” Now, to an astounding reality of what “Adonai” really means. This is especially true when explaining the responsibilities that each husband must have.

A RUNNING COMMENTARY

“1Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, 2Son of man, cause Jerusalem to know her abominations [He is talking about The City of Jerusalem], 3And say, Thus saith the Lord God unto Jerusalem; Thy birth and thy nativity is of the land of Canaan [Canaan was the place where The Jebusites dwelled, a nothing place]; Thy father was an Amorite and thy mother an Hittite. 4And as for thy nativity, in the day thou wast born thy navel was not cut [just left to bleed, and nobody paid attention to Jerusalem at all]. …neither wast thou washed in water to supple thee; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all [They used to tie up a child in swaddling clothes to keep their bones together so the child would get rigid or come together.]. 5None eye pitied thee, to do any of these unto thee, to have compassion upon thee [no one cared]; But thou wast cast out in the open field, to the loathing of thy person, in the day that thou wast born [when Jerusalem started]. 6And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood [dying as a city and becoming a ghost town]. 7I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live.” [beginning to restore her]. I have caused thee to multiply as the bud of the field [beginning to flourish], and thou hast increased and waxen great…. [in Solomon’s time, it was known all over the world as God’s place]. And thou art come to excellent ornaments [describing a bride, or talking about a wife]. Thy breasts are fashioned, and thine hair is grown, whereas thou wast naked and bare. 8Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time was the time of love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord God, [your Adonai, God] and thou becamest mine. 9Then washed I thee with water, yea, I thoroughly washed away they blood from thee, and I anointed thee with oil. 10I clothed thee also with broidered work and shod thee with badgers’ skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk.” For a more in depth perspective, read Ephesians 5:26-27. What is the responsibility of the husband? The husband provides for the wife’s needs.

MASTER & SLAVE RELATIONSHIP

This is a good time to explain the Master/slave relationships. God’s idea of slavery is to make the slave better by teaching him to be self-sufficient. On the other hand, man’s idea of slavery is to take advantage of the slave. Do you see the vital difference? A Christian is a “duloss” or “slave” of Christ, and as Christians, you are destined to become The Bride of Christ. Christ will prepare you so that you are without blemish or wrinkles. He wants you to become Holy and Perfect. The husband’s job is to be the head of the wife. As “Adonai,” or God, He is your Head (through Christ). He is Lord, or Master, or Husband of The Church (The Bride).
When you read The Laws of slavery in The Book of The Law, a Hebrew was to be a slave for only six years. When The Seventh Year came, he was SET FREE. God’s type of slavery is to have the master take charge, train the person who went into slavery for six years, after which he should have learned from his mistakes and be able to take care of himself and family. In the 7th year he should be able to make it on his own. A husband’s job is to make the wife and family prosperous. He should make them happy, and thankful. Even slavery between master and slave is a positive relationship that should improve the slave. How much greater is a man’s responsibility to a wife and family – than that of a slave!

The whole Book of Philemon deals with Onesimus and slavery. Paul says, “I am sending Onesimus to you who was once unprofitable for you, but now is not only profitable to you, but to me and everyone. If he owes you anything, lay it to my charge.”
Adonai, the title that denotes one of God’s character traits, takes the leadership over you. He becomes responsible for you, and you submit as a wife – indeed, as The Church. He leads you to PERFECTION. The name Adonai carries the distinction as a master who serves those under him. Never forget the difference between God’s form of government and man’s methods of government. Those under man’s methods of government always find that the rulers are those who rule over others – and want to get all the benefits. Those in God’s way of government are in charge to perform the caring, and all the giving. That is the full meaning of Adonai. Your Master, God, becomes One with you in Christ, and you are married to Christ.

JHVH – SABOATH

Malachi 3:13-17 13Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts? 15And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. 17And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

JHVH – “Saboath” is the seventh name for God in The Old Testament. Christians think this has to do with The Sabbath. The name JHVH is “I am that I am,” but Saboath is “Lord of Hosts.” Malachi gives an example of the seventh name, JHVH, “Saboath,” by relating the trials that human beings go through in this life.

This name tells you about God’s nature, His character, and how He looks at you. “13Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord [JHVH, Sabboawith, speaking]. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee?” God declares that mankind speaks against Him, but you say you never said anything against Him.

Then consider Malachi 3:14-15: “14Ye have said, It is vain to serve God [no reason to serve God]: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts? [this Lord of Hosts is JHVH Saboath].
People say that you seem to receive no help in serving God. 15And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. This is referring to those who said they followed God, but it did not do any good. Instead, the wicked have been blessed, and the criminals have gotten away with murder.

A HOPELESS SITUATION

Have you ever been in a situation where you thought you couldn’t take it any more? You felt that the pressures were just too much for you. You’ve tried to be a good Christian. You want to keep serving God. You pray to Him. You ask Him for help because problems have plagued your life – whether it is a sick child, the loss of a job, or a death in the family.

This is a time when all hope seems to be gone – and you feel like there is not even a reason to obey God or follow God. In Malachi 3:16, it states: “16Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord, hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written.”

God’s nature is such that He never forgets what you have gone through, or are going through. Your God never forgets anything you did to remain Faithful to Him.

Your Great God has a Book of Remembrance. “16before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name [the name JHVH, Sabboawith, Lord of hosts]. “17And they shall be mine saith the Lord of hosts [described in the context] in that day when I make up my jewels;…”

You will, also, look like God, since God looks like jewels, so you, too, will look like jewels. (Chapter 3, Who is God?) 17And I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.”
When all hope is gone, God says that the one thing about His nature is that He will always be there to deliver you. He won’t have something more important to do. You can always count on God. No matter what you are required to go through, God will be there for you.

A QUICK SUMMARY
Now, to summarize these descriptions in The Old Testament: 1)

Elohim:

Universal God, 2) JHVH or YHWH: The Righteous God, The Judgmental God, 3) El Shaddai: The Pourer or Nurturer, 4) Elyon: Almighty, Most High, 5) El Olam: The God of Inheritance, 6) Adonai: The Lord or Master for your Good, your Husband and finally 7) JHVH – Saboath: The Lord of Hosts.

God is always there. All of God’s titles and names deal universally with a very personal family relationship. The range goes from an all-encompassing God describing His totality – to a very personal God who deals with His Creation One-on-One:
I John 2:27: But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
The Apostle Paul said that you now have a Father that you can cry out Abba, Father, Dad, or Daddy. He goes from a God who is Almighty and impersonal, to a God who is all nurturing and personal. He is a God who upholds everything.


THE ANOINTING

It is most important to realize that God is one who deals with you personally in a Father/child Relationship. He has gone from a huge powerful God (universal God) to a Father who listens to you just as a human father listens to his child. In I John 2, The Apostle John said, “27But the anointing, which ye have received of him,” (the anointing of His Spirit).

John tells that when Christ was sealed as The Firstborn Son, the rest of mankind was, also, sealed. You are sealed with His Holy Spirit. Just as His Son was sealed with The Holy Spirit, you, too, are sealed by His Spirit: “the anointing [Spirit] which ye have received of him abideth in you.” You have God’s seed in you.
You are, now, a Son of God, and He no longer deals with you as a servant – but as an Heir. This is what Galatians reveals. His final name as Father, is how He deals with you in a very personal way: “…27have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you:”

This is because God is personally teaching and training you. “…but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things [everything] , and is truth, and is no lie.” All of the meanings that comprise all the seven titles, can become part of you. These include The Covenant Keeper, The Nurturer, The Gift-giver, and The Deliverer. This is God’s nature and character. By choice, He chooses not to be anything else: “…and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.”


So, you abide in your Father, and your Father is in you and you are One with Him. Behold, He is a wonderful, overwhelming God who gives you this Gift of Life. His Love for you makes you love Him, putting all your Faith and Trust in Him. YOUR GOAL IS TO BECOME PERFECT AS HE IS PERFECT!