LIVING IN THE PRESENCE OF YAHWEH

By: Dennis Harworth

Out of curiosity, I did something I have never done before.  I looked up the numerical meaning, otherwise known as gematria, of the year 2026.  This is a symbolic method in Hebrew texts by using letters as numbers.  I found that 2026 is rich in biblical symbolism.  2000 is the period of the Messianic era.  The Hebrew numerical value of 26 equals the numerical value of יהוה (YHWH), the Divine Name = י (10) + ה (5) + ו (6) + ה (5) = 26. 

In the Old Testament at the burning bush, Yahweh (YHWH) revealed His name to Moses as “I AM WHO I AM”, emphasizing God’s eternal existence and constant, unchanging nature (Exodus 3:14).  “I AM” is more than just a name for God – it is the statement of His being and reveals a God who draws near.  His name is not just a statement of existence, but a declaration that He is faithfully present, forever active, and is everything we will ever need. 

This divine name YHWH (יהוה) is considered extremely holy.  That is why, in order to avoid accidental misuse of the name of God, the Jews stopped saying it aloud.  This sacred name was written as LORD (all caps) in many Bible translations to help believers to recognize God’s name and all that reflects His character, nature, and attributes.  For example: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV).  Remember this as you read the Old Testament.  It will bless you as you get to know His name and His character because it’s in there a lot.  According to Dr. Harold L. Willmington from the Liberty Home Bible Institute, this covenant name occurs 6,823 times.

For us as Christians today, the significance of God’s divine name finds its fullest expression in Jesus.  Matthew’s Gospel declares, “They shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated God with us” (Matthew 1:23).  Jesus embodies the closeness of YHWH, showing that the presence of God is a precious reality.  As you go through this year of 2026, let the mention of 26 encourage you to live intentionally in Yahweh’s presence by seeking Him in prayer and worship, and trusting who He is.  Psalm 9:10 from The Passion Translation says, “For everyone who knows your wonderful name keeps putting their trust in you.  They can count on you for help no matter what.  O Lord, you will never, no never, neglect those who come to you.”

It is so tremendously exciting to realize that this year of 2026 can be a constant reminder of living in the presence of the revealed holy, and personal name of God – Yahweh.  So, let this year inspire you to deliberately live with your faith anchored in God’s character; encourage you to be rooted in your trust in Him; and confidently have your hope grounded in His promises.  You will not have to fear the future, but go forward with confident expectation.  The same God who revealed Himself as YHWH to Moses, is the same God who redeems, protects, provides, and leads you today.  Therefore, let 2026 be the opportunity to be blessed with everything you need by LIVING IN THE PRESENCE OF YAHWEH.