Moses built an alter there and named it Yahweh-Nissi (which means, “the Lord is my banner”)

– Exodus 17:15 (New Living Translation)

Flying the banner of our favorite sports team is a long-standing tradition. A quick search of the Internet will provide countless ways in which today’s fan can display his or her team loyalties. We see banners hanging in our streets and from our homes. Flags, decals and magnets of “my team” are standard equipment on every fan’s car or truck. Team banners can be found in our game rooms and bedrooms as well as on our mailboxes and front doors. We want the focus to be on our team and we want everyone to know we stand side-by-side with them.

Over the centuries, God has been given many names. He is El Shaddai, Lord God Almighty. He is Jehovah-Raah, the Lord My Shepherd and Jehovah Jireh, the Lord Will Provide. He is also called Jehovah-Nissi, the Lord is My Banner. Nissi is the Hebrew word for “banner”. Following a great victory over the Amalekites, Moses recognized that Israel’s success was the result of the Lord being their banner. As long as the focus was on God, victory was theirs. In battles throughout history, opposing countries have flown their own flag on a pole. The purpose was to give their soldiers a feeling of hope and a point of focus. This is what God is to us: a banner of encouragement to give each of us hope and a focal point.

Lord, thank You for being my banner. In my daily battles, teach me to keep my focus on You. You are my only hope and salvation. Amen.