16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe." Proverbs 18:10
In Old Testament times, a name was not only an identification but also an identity. Many times, a special meaning was attached to a name. The names of God reveal His identity, and they have special meanings. All throughout Scripture God reveals Himself to us. Much of the Old Testament is where He reveals Himself through His names. As we study these 16 names of God we will better understand Who He is. The meanings of His names uncover the central personality and nature of the One Who is our Strong Tower.
Let’s run to that Strong Tower of the names of God together!
This could be one of the most exciting and encouraging studies you have ever participated in. Through this study, you will
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These 16 names of God are presented in the order that they are revealed to us in God’s Word—the Bible. As we study each of these 16 names we will see His character and His nature build on the name before it. You will find yourself immediately drawn to Him as you discover He is not only your Creator. He is also your Provider. He is your Healer and your place of peace. He is your Protector, Guide, and constant Companion.
God knows us by our name (Isaiah 43:1). Shouldn’t we also know Him by His?
God knows us by our name (Isaiah 43:1). Shouldn’t we also know Him by His?
A Synopsis of the 16 Names of God Book
Each of God’s wonderful names reveals a specific aspect of His character and nature. The names written about in the book 16 Names of God a Strong Tower to Run to are presented in the order that they are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible is God’s inspired Word and I believe it is important to study His names in this order. Each of these names reflects God's power, authority, love, and grace. The passages where we find His names emphasize that God desires a personal, intimate relationship with us. Each of these names reveals a different aspect of that relationship.
- God reveals His character to us continuously through His Word. Beginning with Elohim, our Creator God, He becomes Yahweh, our LORD Jehovah. His desire for a relationship with us extends far beyond our role as created beings. We were made for something more, and God wants to be our Yahweh, LORD Jehovah, for all of time in this life and beyond.
- From Yahweh, our LORD Jehovah, to El Elyon, the Most High God. He is a righteous, holy, and just God, Whose name is so sacred that one would dare not to say it aloud. He is our Forgiver and Redeemer, as He was to a nation long ago, and still is to us today. There is none like Him, none that can compare to the Most High God, El Elyon.
- From the Most High God, EL Elyon, to Adonai, our Lord and Master, the Possessor of Heaven and Earth. EL Elyon provides us with a sense of security. He is our Deliverer and a holy habitation, a refuge, a fortress, and a dwelling place. This God is worthy of our complete trust. He is also worthy of our unconditional submission as our Adonai, Lord and Master.
- From Adonai, our Lord and Master, to El Shaddai, our Lord God Almighty, Who is all-sufficient. He fills the emptiness within our souls. He takes our weaknesses, and covers them with Himself. El Shaddai is enough for this life and the life to come, and we can rely on Him completely.
- From El Shaddai, our Lord God Almighty, let us turn our attention to El Olam, the Everlasting God. One of the greatest comforts we can take in our faith is that El Shaddai is constant and unchanging. He was the same God to Job and the woman at the well as He is to us today. He is also our El Olam, the Everlasting God. His unchanging nature has no end!
- From El Olam, the Everlasting God, to Jehovah Jireh, the Lord Who provides for us. He remains constant throughout time—past, present, and future. His provision is always right on time and precisely tailored to meet our needs. Knowing He is not just providing for us today or tomorrow but for all eternity, we can find true contentment in Him.
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- From Jehovah Mekoddishkem, the Lord Who sanctifies, to Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our Peace. We need sanctification to be set apart as well as the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. This peace, which is beyond human comprehension, is accessible to you today, friend! It flows through the channels of His Word.
- From Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our Peace, to Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts. The peace that Jehovah Shalom gives is beyond the comprehension of the world. It is the peace that our souls yearn for, and this is what we were created to crave. Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts, emphasizes the power and authority of God to grant us that peace we seek. Our souls were created to worship the Lord of Hosts.
- From Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts, to Jehovah Raah, the Lord our Shepherd. The One Who holds universal power and authority also serves as our loving Shepherd. He not only protects us but also guides us on this journey we call life. He leads us to rest beside tranquil waters and restores our souls for His own name’s sake. This Good Shepherd is what our souls long for, and He is faithful to care for us as our Good Shepherd.
- From Jehovah Raah, the Lord our Shepherd, to Jehovah Tsidkenu, the Lord our Righteousness. This Shepherd causes us to declare, "I shall not want." He restores our souls and leads us beside peaceful waters for rest. This Good Shepherd guides us, leading us into His righteousness, inviting us to “Come!”
- From Jehovah Tsidkenu, the Lord our Righteousness, to Jehovah Shammah, the Lord is There. Our righteous God fills the depths of our needy souls by covering us and making us righteous. He will never abandon us. He is there to awaken the stagnant waters of everyday life. We belong to Him, and He belongs to us. He is always present, always there, and will never leave or forsake us.
The opening of the Old Testament introduces us to the first name of God, Elohim, the Creator God, in Genesis 1. In Ezekiel 48, we see this last name, Jehovah Shammah, The Lord is There. From Genesis to Ezekiel, we have meditated on 16 names of God. These names are presented in this book in the in the order they are revealed to us in His Word. Each name adds to our understanding of His character, building on the previous one. We find hope for our weary souls as we learn about Him. Our love for Him deepens through this journey of His attributes. With every name, our relationship with God becomes more personal and intimate. This incredible relationship will then overflow into all of the other areas of our lives as well. Through the extravagant gift of Himself, we know Proverbs 18:10 to be true. "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe." Run to it, friend! Run!
What People Are Saying About the Book
"16 Names of God: A Strong Tower to Run to is a captivating study that unravels the significance of God's names, offering readers an inspiring and transformative experience. The orderly presentation of these names allows for a profound exploration of God's character, leading to a richer understanding of His nature. Through this study, readers will witness the interconnectedness of God's names with His unwavering love and commitment. The journey is not only educational, but also deeply personal, expanding our sense of closeness to God as Creator, Provider, Healer, and Guide. This study is an invaluable resource for those seeking a deeper connection with our Savior." —Ruth
"Embarking on the study of 16 Names of God is an exhilarating and encouraging adventure into the heart of God's identity and our identity in Him. This study masterfully presents the names of God in a thoughtfully written order, allowing readers to witness the seamless development of His character throughout Scripture. The deep exploration of each name reveals profound insights, deepening the connection between the reader and the Almighty God. As the study progresses, readers are guided to recognize the close relationship between God's names and His unwavering character. A beautifully written journey that instills a sense of peace, protection, and companionship with the Creator." —Lydia
"16 Names of God: A Strong Tower to Run to is a transformative journey through the richness of God's identity revealed through His names. This study unveils the profound meanings attached to each name, providing a deep understanding of the Almighty. The progression of names allows readers to witness the unfolding of God's character, fostering a personal and committed connection to Him. The study encourages self-reflection, leading to a strengthened sense of identity in God's steadfast love. Beautifully presented, this study is a captivating exploration that draws readers closer to their Creator, Provider, Healer, and constant Companion." —Abigail
"First, let me begin this review by describing the book itself because it’s an unusual size for a devotional book. This is a beautiful hardcover edition with a full-color cover illustration that sets the tone for the quality of this book. It’s a larger book than most devotional books, at 8.25x 0.59 x 11 inches, and a length of 178 pages. Scattered throughout the book are some artwork pages (from Blue Chair Blessing) that feature verses to go along with each chapter. These pages look attractive on their own, or they would make wonderful coloring pages to add your own creative touch to the book. I’m very impressed by the hardback book itself. It would look great in any library setting.
However, it’s the devotional material inside the book that makes it an outstanding devotional and inspirational book. Each devotion centers around a particular Name of God and is around 5-7 pages long. The author has taken her extensive study on each name and given us the information in an understandable and heart-touching manner. Along with the content about each name, the author includes a personal reflection and a “Journal a Prayer” page at the end of each chapter.
You can easily read through these 16 names as a devotion for the day. However, as I’ve been reading, I’ve realized that I need to take the time to mine all the treasure that’s in these pages and do some personal journaling as I go through each chapter. This book is going to be a wonderful personal Bible study for me as I take the time to meditate on the scripture passages and the author’s thoughts. I’m hoping that you’ll want to take a look at this book and join me on this journey, too." —Patti
"Life-Changing Exploration of God's Names! This study is a gem! As a believer, I've always known some of the names of God, but this book takes you on a deep dive into their meanings and significance. It's incredibly well-organized, and I love that each name builds upon the previous one, revealing God's character in a beautiful progression. The personal reflections from different individuals in each chapter add a relatable and personal touch. The coloring sheets are a creative way to engage with the Scriptures, and the journaling space provides room for personal reflection and prayer. If you want to strengthen your relationship with God and understand Him on a deeper level, this study is a must-do!" —Jennifer
"This book is a wonderful study tracing God as He reveals Himself to us through the progressive revelation in His Word. Since God’s name reveals His character, this study helps to focus our hearts and minds on the character of God as He intended to reveal that to us. The content is biblically sound and includes great application. You won’t be disappointed by the time spent studying God and His names! Dig in and learn what God has for you in the Strong Tower of His names!" —Amanda
"Longing for a deeper understanding of God’s character and a richer relationship with your Savior? Sixteen Names of God offers bite-sized nuggets of insight into God’s powerful, personal, and transformative names—perfect for a daily devotional read to help you meditate on a different name of God each day. Patsy’s warm and inviting style of writing will make you feel like you’re discussing the God you love with a friend in a cozy café. So, grab this book and a cup of coffee, and prepare to feel awe, reverence, love, and gratitude for the character of our awesome God!" —Cami
"Deepen Your Faith with '16 Names of God'! This Bible study is an absolute delight. It's beautifully designed, with a stunning watercolor cover that drew me in from the start. The sequential exploration of God's names is both enlightening and spiritually enriching. It's amazing to see how each name builds upon the previous one, revealing more about God's character with every chapter. The personal reflections are touching and relatable, making the study feel personal and engaging. The coloring sheets are a creative way to meditate on the Scriptures, and the journaling space encourages introspection and prayer. This study is a must for anyone looking to strengthen their faith and deepen their relationship with God." —Emily
"A Great Tool to Get To Know God Better. The "16 Names of God: A Strong Tower to Run to" book is helping me deepen my personal relationship with God. I find myself doing double takes as God reveals new facets of Himself through this book. The book includes coloring pages and journaling pages and lends itself to be an astounding devotional study. I especially appreciate that with all the information and wisdom in the book, it still allows God's Word to speak for itself." —Theresa
"I've always been fascinated by the names of God with their densely descriptive Hebrew that fixes on a divine attribute with laser focus and teases out one more reason for my trust and devotion. In 16 Names of God, Patsy Burnette serves the Body of Christ with her thoughtful and scriptural meditations on the all-sufficiency of God. We cannot love what we do not know, and immersing our hearts and minds in the study of God's character is undoubtedly a good beginning for the believer who wants to embrace her identity as God's child and model her life according to God's character." —Michele
"An Enlightening Journey! '16 Names of God: A Strong Tower to Run to' is a remarkable resource for anyone seeking a profound understanding of God's character. The book is beautifully laid out, and the watercolor cover is a visual delight. What sets this study apart is its structure, presenting the names of God in a sequential and logical order. As you progress through each chapter, you witness God's nature and attributes unfolding brilliantly. The personal reflections from different people provide a unique and relatable perspective. The coloring sheets and journaling sections enhance the interactive experience. This study is a spiritual treasure that will deepen your faith and draw you closer to the Almighty." —Jessica
"An Invaluable Resource for Spiritual Growth! '16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to' is a transformative study that deepens your understanding of God's character. The book is aesthetically pleasing, with a captivating watercolor cover. Its unique structure—where each name builds upon the previous one—reveals God's nature in a logical and enlightening progression. The personal reflections from different contributors make the study a true treasure. The coloring pages are a creative touch, and the journaling pages allow for personal reflection and prayer. This study is a valuable resource for anyone seeking spiritual growth and a more profound understanding of God. Highly recommended!" —Heather
Quotes From 16 Name of God
"Elohim, this most ancient name of God, conveys the idea of His creative power. That creative power speaks to His authority, and sovereignty over all He created. Creation is the foundational reality of our faith, and every biblical truth hinges on it. Without Creation, there is no Garden of Eden. Without the Garden of Eden, there is no Tree of Life. Without the Tree of Life, there is no need for redemption. Elohim is the name Jesus cried out on the cross of Calvary. From the cross of Calvary, from the very grips of redemption, the Son of God cried out to Elohim His Father. This is a powerful image, and the name Elohim depicts for us a powerful God!
...And remember, Elohim, our Creator God, makes no mistakes, friend! When we plant our feet on the solid ground of eternity we will see our Creator. Our Elohim will be there, and we will comprehend then what is so difficult to understand now." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"Perhaps we, like Moses, view God as a God of history, a God of our fathers. Sure, He did wondrous works in the past. We believe that. But until we’ve seen these works in our own lives, it’s difficult to grasp just what a powerful God He is.
Is He only a God of history to you? Is He merely the God of your father and not a God of the present? Do you struggle to believe that the God of history can still work today in your life becoming the God of the present?
We don’t question Creation, do we? We don’t question the parting of the Red Sea, Calvary, or the feeding of the 5,000. But we’re really good at questioning God’s ability to work today. We question whether or not He can reach that prodigal child. We wonder if He can still work through us to teach that Sunday School class or to restore a broken relationship.
He says, “I Am Who I Am” (Exodus 3:14). I Am Who I have always been. He does not change. He is a personal, unchanging God and He desires for us to know Him and to be known by Him." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"Do you ever doubt God’s promises? I’m ashamed to admit that quite often I act as if I do. Oh, I would never say I doubt Him, but sometimes, I behave as though I do. I lose faith. I have to cry out like the father in Mark 9, oh, Adonai, “help my unbelief!” I think it’s part of the human experience. We are born doubters, at least some of us are. We are especially prone to doubt when it’s beyond our understanding. So much of God is beyond comprehension to our finite minds, isn’t it?
Adonai, help my unbelief!" —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"Job learned valuable lessons through his great calamity. He learned to "despise not" the discipline of El Shaddai. Discipline is good. What parents would not discipline their child if they truly loved them? Through calamity and discipline, Job also learned precious truths. He learned that El Shaddai wounds, but He also binds up. El Shaddai shatters, but His hands heal. El Shaddai is prepared to be a Deliverer to all who walk the road of calamity." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"This all serves to remind us that God can be trusted with our “Isaac.” What is your “Isaac”? What is your prized possession? What has God asked you to sacrifice on the altar of faith to Him today? What do you need to give up? What “rights” do you need to relinquish? Offer these things to the God Who can be trusted to be faithful to provide.... Ask yourself this question today. How often do I miss out on God’s blessing because of my duct tape-tight grip on my “Isaac”?
Maybe that “Isaac” is the only thing you have. It’s precious. You can’t bear the thought of giving it up. Maybe you prayed and waited a lifetime for that “Isaac.” Maybe it’s your career, your home, your family, financial security, or retirement. Maybe, we have taken possession of what God only intended us to be stewards of.
Jehovah Jireh, my Provider!" —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"And don’t miss this, friend! There is something fascinating about that “log.” That log is incredibly symbolic. The Lord provided it for Moses to turn the bitter water into sweet, satisfying water. Although it’s translated here for us in the ESV as a log, the original text reads “tree.” Jehovah Rapha used a tree to heal the bitter waters. What a beautiful picture of Calvary! A tree at Calvary held our Savior’s body. Fastened to that tree was the Lord that heals me—Jehovah Rapha. He turned the bitter water of my unredeemed soul into the satisfying water of redemption." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"I don’t know about you, friend, but I’ve seen myself at the buffet, and it’s not pretty. I’ve felt the urge to gather more than enough and act like every day is the sixth day! But Jehovah Nissi, He is our banner of encouragement, our focal point, and our hope for the battles of life. The grace He extends to us today is enough for today. We don’t need tomorrow’s grace yet. His mercies are new every morning!" —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"I believe Qanna, in a very similar way, is jealous for our alone time with Him. He loves our conversations—prayer, and the time we have to talk. He is jealous for a closer relationship with us. He desires a relationship that takes center stage. He is jealous for the one-on-one time with His children, just the two of us. The time goes by way too quickly. We must be intentional about making this relationship time with Qanna a priority. Because, before you know it, a week goes by, and then two, three, four. Life moves so fast, and we spend more time apart than together." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"Sanctification is a separation from anything that would make us unholy. At the same time, it is also a dedication or commitment to everything that will make us holy. Basically, this name of God means the Lord Who sets you apart—sanctification. Unlike justification, which takes place at the point of salvation, sanctification takes time. It’s a process! But, praise the Lord, Jehovah Mekoddishkem is the Lord Who sanctifies us." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"This is the unexplainable peace of Jehovah Shalom. It's not the kind of peace the world promises. This peace is of a different quality all together. This kind of peace provides not only a sense of inward calm but also a relationship that our souls crave. Our souls were created for this kind of life-giving peace. Our souls crave the peace that can only be found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
"Raah is not only translated as “Shepherd,” but also as Companion and Friend. This indicates an intimacy God desires between Himself and His Creation—us. That intimacy, between the Creator and the created, fills a void left in our souls that nothing else can fill. It’s a vacancy, a longing of our souls that was put there by the Good Shepherd. That vacancy, that longing, causes us to crave Him as a Companion and as a Friend. Nothing can fill this void except Jehovah Raah—the Good Shepherd." —16 Names of God: a Strong Tower to Run to
Read more:
- ELOHIM: Creator God
- YAHWEH: LORD Jehovah
- EL ELYON: Most High God
- ADONAI: Lord Master
- EL SHADDAI: Lord God Almighty
- EL OLAM: The Eternal God
- JEHOVAH JIREH: The Lord Will Provide
- JEHOVAH RAPHA: The Lord That Heals
- JEHOVAH NISSI: The Lord My Banner
- QANNA: Jealous God
- JEHOVAH MEKODDISHKEM: The Lord Who Sanctifies
- JEHOVAH SHALOM: The Lord Is Peace
- JEHOVAH SABAOTH: The Lord of Hosts
- JEHOVAH RAAH: The Lord My Shepherd
- JEHOVAH TSIDKENU: The Lord Our Righteousness
- JEHOVAH SHAMMAH: The Lord Is There
16 Names of God Coloring Sheets
Be one of the first to instantly download these beautiful 16 Names of God coloring sheets. Each of these 16 sheets contains a Scripture verse about a different name of God. These coloring sheets are great for people of all ages. So grab your crayons, colored pencils, art markers or whatever medium you like. Even watercolors work. Get creative as you meditate on these wonderful names of God.
16 Names of God Bookmarks
Be one of the first to instantly download these beautiful 16 Names of God Bookmarks. Each of these 16 bookmarks contains a Scripture verse about a different name of God. These bookmarks are great for people of all ages. So grab yours today and keep these reminders tucked away in your Bible or Bible study material for instant reminders of His goodness. Great for your small group and gift giving!