The Ten Commandments: Don’t Disrespect The Name Of God

The Ten Commandments: Don’t Disrespect the Name of God

Bible Blast: Read Philippians 2:9-11

You must not misuse the name of the LORD your God. The LORD will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.

Exodus 20:7

When our daughter was born, Bob and I really wanted to name her “Lexis.” The problem was that right about that time, the Lexus automobile was becoming very popular. Both sets of grandparents absolutely refused to have a granddaughter “named after a car.” We finally gave in and named her “Alexis,” but we call her Lexi.

Names are so important. When we meet someone, “What’s your name?” is the first thing we ask. When a woman gets married, she often takes her husband’s last name as her own. When a couple adopts a child, they’re thrilled to give him or her their last name to show the world that this child is part of their family.

God’s name is the most powerful name. The name of Jesus will one day cause everyone to confess that he is Lord. Philippians 2:9-11 says, “God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Jesus has a lot more names. But when Christ’s name is spoken at one point in the future, every knee will bow!

When God tells us not to misuse his name, he’s saying to remember the power of who he is. When you say his name, remember who it is you’re talking about. It’s very common for someone to say “God” or “Jesus” when they’re surprised, happy, sad, or scared. Even those who say they don’t believe in God will easily speak his name in regular conversation or from a poorly chosen habit.

I get really upset when I hear someone use Jesus as a swear word, but I know they do it because they don’t know him. To a follower of Jesus Christ, his name is life, truth, love, strength, courage, and freedom.

Girl Gab: If you could rename yourself, what are some of the names you would choose? Have fun with it, and get creative! What about names like “Love,” “Compassion,” or “Fun”? What name would you choose for your mom or dad?