“And Moses built an altar and named it Jehovah-Nissi, which means ‘The Lord is my banner'”.  Exodus 17:15

This name of God comes from the story in Exodus 17 when the Israelites fought with the Amalekites.  Joshua led Israel’s troops into battle while Moses climbed to the top of a hill where he could see the entire battle play out from a strategic vantage point.  God told Moses that as long as he held up his staff, the Israelites would gain an advantage.  When he lowered it, they would lose ground.  Moses was graced with the stamina to keep the staff raised high. 

When the battle was won, Moses built an altar and named it, ‘Jehovah Nissi’, meaning ‘God is my banner.’  There was no doubt that God had led them to victory. 

Revolutionary and Civil War movies show opposing armies advancing toward each in confrontation.  A single soldier, called a Standard Bearer, carried the flag bearing the ensign of his country or government.  He was always in the front line, making this the most dangerous assignment in the army.  He traded in his gun for a flag, all the while knowing that his enemies would probably shoot him first.  He would never put the flag down to engage in the fighting nor would he surrender the flag if he was wounded.  In fact, he was instructed to wrap his body with it even as the final blows come.  As long as the flag was held high, morale was boosted.  People remembered what they were fighting for.  If they lost their bearings, they looked for their flag and were reminded of who they were and why they fought.  Under the flag, they shared a vision and set of ideals. 

A waving flag also grated against the enemy and intimidated them.  It stood for everything they did not believe in.  No wonder there was always an attempt to capture it and destroy it. It was usually burned.    

This is one of my favorite names of God. It’s extremely touching to me that God places Himself as a banner over my life.  Flesh and blood may not see Him, but it still affects them.  Spiritual beings do see Him: heaven’s angels rejoice and work with Him for my good, and hell’s angels stand down and know that their efforts are under His sovereignty.  

A sanctified imagination can see His banner waving high.  I see it, do you?  In this spiritual battle, I remember whose I am, why I’m fighting, and unlike earthly wars when the outcome is uncertain, I know who wins this epic battle.  Jehovah Nissi has already secured victory.

**Standard Bearers on the front lines usually won many medals.  (though post-mortem)