Hagar gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”
Genesis 16:13
El Roi is a Hebrew name for God that means “The God Who Sees” or “The God Who Sees Me”. The name El Roi originates from Hagar, the Egyptian servant who fled into the desert after being mistreated by her mistress— Sarah, Abraham’s wife. She felt abandoned and hopeless, but the angel of the Lord appeared to her, providing comfort and guidance. At that moment, Hagar realized that God saw her suffering and cared for her, so she called Him, El Roi. Let’s explore what this name reveals about the nature of God and how believers can relate with God as El Roi.
THE NATURE OF GOD:
- God is omniscient
God is aware of every detail of our lives. He knows when we sit and rise; He perceives our thoughts from afar. He discerns our going out and lying down, and is familiar with all our ways. Before a word is on our tongues, God knows it completely (Psa 139:1-4).
- God is omnipresent
God’s presence fills every corner of creation, leaving nothing concealed from His sight. As stated in Jeremiah 23:24, no one can hide in secret places where the Lord cannot see them, for He fills heaven and earth with His presence.
- God cares about us
The name El Roi indicates that God is not only aware of our circumstances but also deeply concerned about them and takes action to assist us. Psalm 34:15 states, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry”. God cares for us and is present in our most challenging moments, providing comfort, guidance, and strength.
RELATING WITH EL ROI:
Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is fully aware of their needs and struggles. This name reminds us that no matter what we face, we are never alone for God is always watching over us and is always with us. Whenever we feel unseen, forgotten, overlooked, and ill treated, we can remember that God sees us and cares for us. In times of distress, we can call on El Roi, who is always ready to provide all that we need (Psa 31:22). God cares deeply for us and is willing and able to help us. He neither slumbers nor sleeps, remaining ever watchful to ensure justice and protection for His people (Psa 121; Pro 15:3).
God is not a distant deity but a compassionate Father who sees and understands our struggles. There is nothing He cannot restore; every tear has been seen and every prayer has been heard. Believers can find comfort in knowing that He is always present, watching over us, and ready to provide comfort and help in times of distress.
Further study: 2 Chronicles 16:9; Psalm 37:18
Sign up to be notified every time there is a new post!