Exodus 20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Introductory Thoughts
The world consistently blasphemes the name of the Lord. To them, God’s name is nothing more than a word to be vainly included in any sentence. Unfortunately, many believers have followed suit by taking the Lord’s name in vain. This might be surprising until one considers that taking the Lord’s name in vain would include any use of the Lord’s name that does not bring glory to Him. The Lord’s name is not to be used lightly. It is not to be used as a filler word or even as a so-called Christian curse word. When one uses the Lord’s name, he should either be calling upon or speaking of the Lord. To use the Lord’s name in any other fashion would be a misuse of His wonderful name.
Devotional Thoughts
∙ (For children): God’s name is holy and reverend (Psalm 111:9c). We must never use it in a worthless or vile manner. We want others to know the value of His name (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11; Psalm 54:6b). Praise His name now and forever (Psalm 113:3; Psalm 145:2).
∙ (For everyone): Do you ever use the Lord’s name when you are not specifically calling upon Him or speaking of Him? How could this be considered using the Lord’s name in vain?
∙ Read Leviticus 19:12. What are some ways in which people swear falsely by the Lord’s name? What steps are you willing to take to ensure that you use the Lord’s name properly?
Prayer Thoughts
∙ Ask the Lord to help you reverence His name.
∙ Ask God to perfect your language so that it might glorify Him.
SONG: HOLY AND REVEREND IS THE NAME
Quotes from the next volume
(VOLUME 1, WEEK 29)
Subject: Integrity
Men used to be commended for their level of integrity and one’s handshake was considered a man’s bond.
As societies continue to crumble from the pollution of immorality, men of integrity are quickly disappearing.
A lack of integrity is first and foremost a heart issue.