What stock do you put into a name? Do you like your own name? If you could choose your own name, what name would you choose? Do you associate names to certain types of people? How do you treat the name of God? Do you treat it with respect and reverence?
Though we do not associate names with meanings much anymore, for many centuries names had meanings. Likely, if you take time to look, you will find a meaning for your name. However, we now choose names for our children because we like them, not because of their meaning.
There is one name we should not take lightly, that is the name of God. Unfortunately, far too many people do, including some Christians. We have likely been told as children and adults to not take the Lord’s name in vain. But that does not fully cover it. Sure, we should not use God’s name as curse word. But God gave further instruction.
God says we are not to misuse his name. That can mean slandering it, using it in funny or expletive statements, or merely making light of it. Perhaps this is why the Israelites refused to even speak God’s name. Not only that, but they would only allude to his name in reverent and respectful ways.
I fear we have lost the reverence required of God’s name. We speak God’s name, often without thinking, in irreverent and flippant manner. We fail to think of an almighty God when we speak his name. This failure speaks volumes of what we think of God himself. When we respect someone, we won’t misuse their name. The same goes for misusing God’s name.
I pray we think of God’s awesomeness before speaking his name. I pray we remind ourselves daily of who God is. I pray each one of us decide to treat God’s name with respect and reverence. Think before you speak. Honor God’s name. Be respectful of God’s name. Be reverent with God’s name.
Exodus 20:7 You shall not make wrongful use of the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not acquit anyone who misuses his name.
Marty Pressey 