I’ve had many names in my life.
I’ve been called DJ, Dine, Little Sis, Mrs. O, Mom, Honey.
I’m one person with lots of names.

God has lots of names, too—over 100.
Each name describes a different aspect
of God’s many-faceted character.

On page one of the Bible,
His name is Elohim, which means Mighty Creator.
Thirty-two times in Genesis 1, that’s God’s name.

Then Elohim creates humans, and His name changes.
Now He goes by Jehovah Elohim.
Jehovah (or Yahweh) is the personal, relational name of God.

All through Genesis 2, in all His dealings with man and woman,
He is Jehovah Elohim, the connected, intimate God.
Then a funny thing happens in Genesis 3.

The serpent comes slinking along and whispers to Eve,
“Did God really say…?”
Except Satan uses the name Elohim.

His wicked tactic is to de-personalize God—
to make God seem distant and to plant the thought
that God may be powerful, but He doesn’t really care.

The talking snake doesn’t deny God’s creative power.
God is Elohim.
But the crafty critter deletes the personal name.

Then a funny thing happens when Elohim shows up.
Looking for His humans, who are hiding,
His name goes back to Jehovah Elohim.

Even after they fall for the devil’s bait.
Even after they feel shame and fear and remorse.
Jehovah comes close and deals with the fallout.

Jesus taught us another name for Jehovah Elohim.
Our Father.
Abba.

Daddy.