Not Take His Name in Vain

“No wonder the Scriptures say, ‘The world blasphemes the name of God because of you’.” Romans 2:24 NLT

When I was a child my grandmother was exceedingly strict about any possible violation of God’s name in the widest possible view of the commandment. Minor expletives that started with a “G” were banned. Good for her. Today OMG is one of the most common phrases of people under thirty and few even bat an eye. God said quite clearly that He would “not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.” (Exodus 20:7) In Luther’s comments on this commandment he said that the world is aflame with the judgment of God for abuse of His holy Name.

God amplifies that it is not just the use of His Name, but the way we use His Name in our lives that defiles it. That led to Paul’s comment in Romans 2. His Name is on us when we identify with Him. What we do and say, how we act and where we go all ultimately reflects on His glory. David’s sin with Bathsheba blasphemed God’s Name. That was God’s own comment. I would not dishonor the name of my wife by actions against her purity. We should see our walk with God in the same vein.

Our Lord and God, Help us who bear Your Name do so for Your glory. Amen. 

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