The phrase "I am who I am" has both a religious and secular meaning, referring

Isaac Samuel Lubwama

Faithful Servant
The phrase "I am who I am" has both a religious and secular meaning, referring to self-acceptance or the self-existent nature of God. In a personal context, it signifies self-acceptance and being true to oneself without apology. In a religious context, it is a translation of the Hebrew name God gives to Moses, signifying God's eternal and unchanging nature.

Religious meaning Biblical origin: The phrase comes from the Bible, specifically Exodus 3:14, where God reveals His name to Moses. God's name: It is a translation of the Hebrew phrase "Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh" and is God's personal name, often translated as "I AM" or "I AM WHO I AM". Significance: The name expresses God's self-existence, eternal presence, and unchanging nature, meaning "I am the Existing One". It also signifies God as the source of all being, capable of providing whatever is needed, such as a provider, healer, or deliverer.

Secular meaning Self-acceptance: In a modern context, the phrase is used to express a strong sense of self-acceptance and authenticity. Unapologetic identity: It suggests that a person should embrace their own unique qualities and not feel the need to pretend to be someone they are not. Personal sovereignty: The phrase can also represent an individual's sense of independence and agency in making their own decisions.

The phrase "I am" is a significant declaration by Jesus in the Gospel of John, used to identify himself and his divine nature. These statements, often called the "Seven 'I Am' Sayings," reveal his identity through metaphorical titles such as "I am the bread of life," "I am the light of the world," and "I am the resurrection and the life". They are powerful claims that draw on Old Testament references to God, such as "I AM" in Exodus, and are central to understanding Jesus's role and mission.

The seven "I Am" statements:
- "I am the bread of life": (John 6:35, 48, 51): Jesus provides spiritual nourishment and sustenance.
- "I am the light of the world": (John 8:12; 9:5): He guides people away from the darkness of sin.
- "I am the door of the sheep": (John 10:7, 9): He is the only way to enter the spiritual sheepfold.
- "I am the good shepherd": (John 10:11, 14): He cares for, protects, and guides his followers.
- "I am the resurrection and the life": (John 11:25): He is the source of eternal life and can conquer death.
- "I am the way, the truth, and the life": (John 14:6): He is the exclusive path to God the Father.
- "I am the true vine": (John 15:1): He is the source of life and sustenance for believers, who are the branches.

Other important "I am" declarations:
- "I am he": In John 18:6-8, when Jesus says this to the soldiers searching for him, they fall to the ground, indicating the power and divinity behind the statement. It is a direct reference to the divine name, "I AM WHO I AM" from the Old Testament.
- "Before Abraham was, I am": In John 8:58, Jesus uses the same "I am" phrase to declare his eternal existence before Abraham was born, connecting himself to God's name revealed to Moses in Exodus.

The phrase "I am" in the Bible refers to God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where He says, "I am who I am". Jesus also uses this phrase in the Gospel of John to make several "I am" statements about Himself, such as "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35), "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12), and "I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25).

Old Testament Exodus 3:14: "I am who I am." God reveals His eternal name to Moses and instructs him to tell the Israelites that "I am has sent me to you".

New Testament Jesus's "I Am" statements: These appear in the Gospel of John, where Jesus uses the phrase to describe His identity and role.
- John 6:35: "I am the bread of life".
- John 8:12: "I am the light of the world".
- John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd".
- John 11:25: "I am the resurrection and the life".
- John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life".
- John 15:1: "I am the true vine".
 
What a profound truth you’ve touched upon—the phrase *"I AM WHO I AM"* carries eternal weight in Scripture, revealing the very nature of God and the divine identity of Jesus Christ. This is not merely a statement of self-acceptance as the world often misuses it, but a declaration of absolute sovereignty, eternal existence, and divine authority. Let us explore this together in light of God’s Word, for in it we find not just truth, but the very foundation of our faith and purpose.

In **Exodus 3:13-14 (WEB)**, we read:
*"Moses said to God, 'Behold, when I come to the children of Israel, and tell them, “The God of your fathers has sent me to you,” and they ask me, “What is his name?” What should I tell them?’ God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM,' and he said, 'You shall tell the children of Israel this: “I AM has sent me to you.”’"*
Here, God reveals Himself as the self-existent, unchanging, eternal One—the source of all being, the Alpha and Omega, who depends on nothing and no one for His existence. This name, *Yahweh* (often translated as *LORD* in our Bibles), is sacred, for it declares that God *is*—He is present, active, and unchanging in a world that is constantly shifting. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (**Hebrews 13:8**), and His nature is not bound by time, circumstance, or human understanding.

Now, consider how Jesus boldly takes this divine name upon Himself in the Gospel of John. He doesn’t merely say, *"I am a teacher"* or *"I am a prophet,"* but He declares, *"I AM"* in ways that leave no doubt about His divinity. When Jesus says in **John 8:58 (WEB)**, *"Most certainly, I tell you, before Abraham came into existence, I AM,"* the Jewish leaders understood exactly what He was claiming—they picked up stones to stone Him for blasphemy because He was equating Himself with Yahweh, the great *"I AM"* of Exodus. This was no accidental phrase; it was a direct, unmistakable claim to deity.

Let’s reflect on the depth of Jesus’ *"I AM"* statements, for in them, we see not only His identity but also His mission to save and redeem:
1. **"I am the bread of life"** (**John 6:35**) – He is the sustainer of our souls, the one who satisfies our deepest hunger, not with perishable food but with eternal life.
2. **"I am the light of the world"** (**John 8:12**) – In a world darkened by sin, He is the radiance of God’s glory, guiding us out of darkness into His marvelous light (**1 Peter 2:9**).
3. **"I am the door of the sheep"** (**John 10:7**) – There is no other way to the Father, no other path to salvation. He is the exclusive entrance to eternal life.
4. **"I am the good shepherd"** (**John 10:11**) – Unlike hirelings who flee at the first sign of danger, Jesus lays down His life for His sheep. He knows us, calls us by name, and leads us beside still waters (**Psalm 23**).
5. **"I am the resurrection and the life"** (**John 11:25**) – Death has no final say for those who are in Christ. He holds the keys to life and the grave (**Revelation 1:18**).
6. **"I am the way, the truth, and the life"** (**John 14:6**) – Not *a* way, but *the* way. Not *a* truth, but *the* truth. No one comes to the Father except through Him.
7. **"I am the true vine"** (**John 15:1**) – Apart from Him, we can do nothing. Our life, our fruitfulness, our very existence as believers is rooted in our connection to Him.

These declarations are not suggestions or metaphors—they are absolute truths that demand a response. Either Jesus is who He claims to be—the eternal *"I AM"*—or He is a liar or a lunatic. There is no middle ground. And if He is indeed the great *"I AM,"* then our lives must bow in worship, submission, and total surrender to His lordship.

Now, let us address the secular misuse of this phrase. The world often twists *"I am who I am"* into a mantra of self-affirmation, as if human identity is self-determined and answerable to no higher authority. But this is a dangerous distortion. The Bible never teaches that we are to define ourselves by our feelings, desires, or cultural trends. Instead, Scripture declares that our identity is found *in Christ*. **2 Corinthians 5:17 (WEB)** tells us, *"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new."* Our *"I am"* must be rooted in *"I am His."* We are not our own; we were bought with a price (**1 Corinthians 6:19-20**), and our lives are to be lived for His glory, not our self-fulfillment.

When the world says, *"I am who I am,"* it often means, *"I will do what I want, and no one—not even God—can tell me otherwise."* But this is rebellion, not freedom. True freedom is found in surrender to the One who created us, who knows us better than we know ourselves, and who defines our purpose. **Jeremiah 1:5 (WEB)** reminds us, *"Before I formed you in the belly, I knew you. Before you came out of the womb, I sanctified you."* Our identity is not self-made; it is God-given.

Let us also be clear: the *"I am"* of God is not a call to self-centeredness but to worship. When Moses encountered the burning bush, he didn’t walk away saying, *"Well, I’m good with who I am."* No—he fell on his face in awe of the Holy One. When Jesus declared *"I AM,"* the soldiers fell backward (**John 18:6**), and the disciples worshiped. The proper response to the *"I AM"* is not self-acceptance but *God-acceptance*—acknowledging His lordship, repenting of our sin, and aligning our lives with His Word.

So how does this truth apply to us today? It means that our security, our worth, and our purpose are not found in our achievements, our relationships, or our self-perception, but in the unchanging nature of God. When we struggle with doubt, fear, or insecurity, we can rest in the fact that the *"I AM"* is with us. When the world tells us to *"be true to ourselves,"* we must ask: *"Which self?"* The old self, enslaved to sin? Or the new self, created in Christ Jesus for good works (**Ephesians 2:10**)?

Let us pray together, seeking the Lord’s heart on this matter:

*Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your eternal, unchanging nature. You are the great *"I AM,"* the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. We worship You, for there is none like You—self-existent, sovereign, and holy. Lord, we thank You that in a world of shifting sands, You are our firm foundation. Your Word stands forever, and Your promises never fail.*

*Father, we confess that too often we look to ourselves or to the world for identity and validation. Forgive us for the times we’ve embraced the lie that we are our own, that we can define ourselves apart from You. Teach us, Lord, to find our identity in Christ alone. Remind us that we are Your children, bought with the precious blood of Jesus, and called to live for Your glory.*

*We pray for those who are struggling with their purpose or worth. May they encounter You, the great *"I AM,"* in a fresh and powerful way. Strip away the lies of the enemy that say they must look within for answers. Instead, draw them to Your Word, where true life is found. Let them know that in You, they are loved, chosen, and redeemed.*

*Lord, we also lift up those who have been deceived by the world’s empty philosophy of self-acceptance without repentance. Open their eyes to see that true freedom is not found in doing whatever they please, but in surrendering to Your perfect will. Convict hearts, Lord, and bring many to repentance, that they may turn from sin and embrace the life You offer in Christ.*

*Finally, Father, we ask that You would deepen our understanding of who Jesus is—the *"I AM"* in human flesh, our Savior and Lord. Help us to walk in the truth of His declarations, to abide in Him as the true vine, to follow Him as the good shepherd, and to trust Him as the resurrection and the life. May our lives reflect His glory, and may we boldly proclaim His name to a world that desperately needs to know Him.*

*We pray all these things in the mighty name of Jesus, the great *"I AM,"* who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.*

Beloved, let this truth sink deep into your heart: the God who spoke to Moses in the burning bush is the same God who speaks to you today. The Jesus who declared *"I AM"* to His disciples is the same Jesus who walks with you in every season. You are not defined by your past, your struggles, or the world’s standards. You are defined by *Him*—the One who is, who was, and who is to come (**Revelation 1:8**). Rest in that. Live in that. And let your life be a testament to the great *"I AM"* who calls you His own.
 
Dear friend,

I've been reflecting on the phrase "I am who I am" and its profound significance in Scripture. It's not just a statement of self-acceptance, but a declaration of absolute sovereignty, eternal existence, and divine authority. Let's explore this together, seeking God's heart in it.

In Exodus 3:13-14, we read:

"Then Moses said to God, 'Suppose I go to the children of Israel and say to them, "The God of your fathers has sent me to you," and they ask me, "What is His name?" What should I tell them?' God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' He said further, 'Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, "I AM has sent me to you."'"

Here, God reveals Himself as the self-existent, unchanging, eternal One—the source of all being, the Alpha and the Omega. This name, often translated as "LORD" in our Bibles, is sacred. It declares that God is present, active, and unchanging in a world that is constantly shifting. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Now, consider how Jesus boldly takes this divine name upon Himself in the Gospel of John. He doesn't just say, "I am a teacher" or "I am a prophet," but declares, "I AM" in ways that leave no doubt about His divinity. In John 8:58, Jesus says, "Most certainly, I tell you, before Abraham was born, I AM." The Jewish leaders understood exactly what He was claiming—He was equating Himself with Yahweh, the great "I AM" of Exodus. This was no accidental phrase; it was a direct, unmistakable claim to deity.

Let's reflect on the depth of Jesus' "I AM" statements, for in them we see not only His identity but also His mission to save and redeem:

1. "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35)—He is the sustainer of our souls, the one who satisfies our deepest hunger, not with perishable food but with eternal life.
2. "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12)—In a world darkened by sin, He is the radiance of God's glory, guiding us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
3. "I am the door of the sheep" (John 10:7)—There is no other way to the Father, no other path to salvation. He is the exclusive entrance to eternal life.
4. "I am the good shepherd" (John 10:11)—Unlike hirelings who flee at the first sign of danger, Jesus lays down His life for His sheep. He knows us, calls us by name, and leads us beside still waters (Psalm 23).
5. "I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25)—Death has no final say for those who are in Christ. He holds the keys to life and the grave (Revelation 1:18).
6. "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6)—Not a way, but the way. Not a truth, but the truth. No one comes to the Father except through Him.
7. "I am the true vine" (John 15:1)—Apart from Him, we can do nothing. Our life, our fruitfulness, our very existence as believers is rooted in our connection to Him.

These declarations are not suggestions or metaphors—they are absolute truths that demand a response. Either Jesus is who He claims to be—the eternal "I AM"—or He is a liar or a lunatic. There is no middle ground. And if He is indeed the great "I AM," then our lives must bow in worship, submission, and total surrender to His lordship.

Now, let's address the secular misuse of this phrase. The world often twists "I am who I am" into a mantra of self-affirmation, as if human identity is self-determined and answerable to no higher authority. But this is a dangerous distortion. The Bible never teaches that we are to define ourselves by our feelings, desires, or cultural trends. Instead, Scripture declares that our identity is found in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our "I am" must be rooted in "I am His." We are not our own; we were bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and our lives are to be lived for His glory, not our self-fulfillment.

When the world says, "I am who I am," it often means, "I will do what I please, and no one—not even God—can tell me otherwise." But this is rebellion, not freedom. True freedom is found in surrender to the One who created us, who knows us better than we know ourselves, and who defines our purpose (Jeremiah 1:5).

Let's pray together, seeking the Lord's heart on this matter:

Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of Your eternal, unchanging nature. You are the great "I AM," the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. We worship You, for there is none like You—self-existent, sovereign, and holy. Lord, we thank You that in a world of shifting sands, You are our firm foundation. Your Word stands forever, and Your promises never fail.

Father, we confess that too often we look to ourselves or to the world for identity and validation. Forgive us for the times we've embraced the lie that we are our own, that we can define ourselves apart from You. Teach us, Lord, to find our identity in Christ alone. Remind us that we are Your children, bought with the precious blood of Jesus, and called to live for Your glory.

We pray for those who are struggling with their purpose or worth. May they encounter You, the great "I AM," in a fresh and powerful way. Strip away the lies of the enemy that say they must look within for answers. Instead, draw them to Your Word, where true life is found. Let them know that in You, they are loved, chosen, and redeemed.

Lord, we also lift up those who have been deceived by the world's empty philosophy of self-acceptance without repentance. Open their eyes to see that true freedom is not found in doing whatever they please, but in surrendering to Your perfect will. Convict hearts, Lord, and bring many to repentance, that they may turn from sin and embrace the life You offer in Christ.

Finally, Father, we ask that You would deepen our understanding of who Jesus is—the "I AM" in human flesh, our Savior and Lord. Help us to walk in the truth of His declarations, to abide in Him as the true vine, to follow Him as the good shepherd, and to trust Him as the resurrection and the life. May our lives reflect His glory, and may we boldly proclaim His name to a world that desperately needs to know Him.

We pray all these things in the mighty name of Jesus, the great "I AM," who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Beloved, let this truth sink deep into your heart: The God who spoke to Moses in the burning bush is the same God who speaks to you today. The Jesus who declared "I AM" to His disciples is the same Jesus who walks with you in every season. You are not defined by your past, your struggles, or the world's standards. You are defined by Him—the One who is, who was, and who is to come (Revelation 1:8). Rest in that. Live in that. And let your life be a testament to the great "I AM" who calls you His own.

In Christ's love,

[Your Name]
 
Lord, we pray for this prayer and family for blessings healing and salvation. Heal and bless. May their lives be a praise and glory unto thee.
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.

Some resources that might help.

Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)

Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)

Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)

Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)

Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)

Help in Prayer

Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)

Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)

sermons

Be a Prayer Warrior: “Praying for others”
 
I prayed that God in Jesus' name will answer your prayer request according to God's perfect love, wisdom, will, timing, grace, and mercy. God Loves You. Thank You Jesus!!!

Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.


🙏Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.

God heal me in every area of my life. Deliver and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so
. Prayer written by The Encourager-Prayer Warrior-Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach. www.theencourager.net

Healed Spirit Soul And Body

 

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The phrase "I am" in the Bible refers to God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where He says, "I am who I am". Jesus also uses this phrase in the Gospel of John to make several "I am" statements about Himself, such as "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35), "I am the light of the world"...
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