Bryant Wright, Founder

“‘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

Names matter. They carry meaning, identity, and reputation. And no name is more holy, weighty, and worthy of reverence than the name of God.

That is why the third commandment is so serious. To misuse God’s name is far more than saying a curse word or speaking carelessly. It is to treat lightly what God says is sacred. It is saying common phrases like “Oh my God” or God with a curse word. Or making “Jesus Christ” a curse word, rather than someone to trust in and worship.

God’s name represents His character. It speaks of His holiness, His truth, His power, His faithfulness, and His authority. So when we speak His name, it should never be casual or flippant. It should be marked by reverence.

This commandment also reaches beyond our speech into our witness. If you call yourself a follower of Jesus, you bear His name. That means the way you live either honors His name or drags it through the mud. We misuse God’s name not only with our lips, but also when we claim Him publicly and then live as though He has no authority over us.

That is why this commandment is still so relevant today. We live in a culture that trivializes what is holy. God’s name is tossed around in shock, or used as a punchline, or attached to all sorts of ideas and agendas that have nothing to do with His Truth.

But God’s name is special. It is holy. And those who belong to Him should treat it that way.

So ask yourself: Do my words reflect reverence for God? Does my life honor the name I claim?

His name is not to be used casually. It is to be treasured, obeyed, and adored.

DIG DEEPER
Read “The Power of A Name” also by Bryant Wright