Hosea 11:9
...for I am God [el: strength, mighty, deity] and not a man, the Holy One [Qadosh] in your midst [nearest part, center]...
He is very different. Not like us. Tell us over and over.
God frequently reminded his people in ancient days that he is not a man. And don’t forget it. He is God—the Strong One, the Mighty One, the Holy One. And that’s who I want him to be. Who wants a weak, wimpy god?
Yet despite how set apart he is, he is also very close. In our very midst, at our nearest parts, right at the center of our hearts and lives. His presence opens us up. His deity set us free.
He still speaks it today: he is God, and not a man. He is distinct. I don't want to forget it.
Hosea 13:4
But I am the LORD [Jehovah] your God [Elohim] from the land of Egypt; you know no God but me, and besides me there is no savior [be open, wide or free; to be safe].
