Be Careful With God’s Name

One of the most oft committed sins in America is the irreverent use of God’s name. Every day innumerable people use God’s name as if it is so much trash. They use it in cursing, swearing, and joke telling, and toss it around in conversation, writings, and songs with careless disrespect. It is used as careless epithets and exclamations to emphasize a statement.

Folks need to be taught better. They need to know the greatness of Almighty God, and that His name is holy and reverend (Psalm 111:9). Instead of using His name carelessly, people should be giving “unto the Lord the glory due unto His name” (Psalm 29:2 and 96:8). David wrote, “The Lord reigns; let the peoples tremble… Let them praise Your great and awesome name.” (Psalm 99:1,3)

Consider this. God, through Moses, gave Israel His law, which included these words, “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.” (Exodus 20:7) Further, the people were taught to “fear this glorious and awesome name, the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 28:58)

Jesus declared, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36, 37) Remember, Jesus and the word He spoke will judge us.

Anyone who says he or she respects God should think very seriously about how he or she uses His name. Even though one may not cuss, so to speak, and use God’s name in a vulgar way, there are many times when “Lord” and “God” are used in a frivolous way and in so doing this shows a lack of respect for God. Think about God before you use His name carelessly.

Consider the following passages:

“To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” I Corinthians 1:2

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17

Remember, calling ON the name of the Lord is much different from calling OUT the name of the Lord. God has given us the privilege to call upon His name in prayer and praise. Let us revere Him and give Him the respect He calls for and deserves.

See you when the saints meet, Lord willing.

Love, Tony