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

Some of my Jewish friends go to great lengths to avoid misusing the name of the LORD. Some avoid spelling G-d’s name at all. And then there is the use of God’s Name in our broader culture.

The misuse of God’s name is common in our everyday life. You’ll hear God’s name taken in vain in movies and music. Politicians and business leaders and individuals alike all carelessly use God’s name.

While we were in Phoenix last week, one of my grandsons repeatedly said, “Oh, my God!”. I’m sure he picked up the phrase from another kid or an adult or a television character, but I used it as an opportunity to explain to him that followers of God avoid using God’s name like that.

I didn’t just tell him to stop. I told him that we should use God’s name only as we honor Him. We use His name to give him thanks, pray and speak about spiritual things. He’s young, but this answer seemed to resonate with him and I hope he’ll remember it always.

Part of loving God with all our hearts and minds and strength is honoring him with our lips. I am reminded of this verse:

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Psalm 19:14