Wednesday, July 11, 2007

What's In a Name

‘You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. (Exodus 20:7)


‘Oh, sorry chaplain.’ I hear that phrase often. It's the familiar expression soldiers use when they swear in front of the padre. Most of the time, I just nod my head to acknowledge the expression of regret. But, there is a form of swearing that is very dangerous: the misuse of God’s name. God's name is often spoken in curses, jokes, and interjections without even thinking. Yet this is one of the least recognized sins. Anytime we use His name for anything other than to address Him or to speak of Him respectfully, we use His name in vain. His name is holy and should only be spoken in reverence. Handle with care!