The 3rd Commandment“Thou Shalt NOT take the name of the Lord thy God in vain”

By: Tam Walls

3rd Commandment“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.” (Exodus 20: 7)

The Word ‘Vain’Let us look at the word vain. Vain means without purpose or in an improper or irreverent manner, which means not having respect for. With this being said, we must be careful in how we use God’s name so we won’t misuse it. Why must we be careful? Well to begin, it is a commandment from God and we must keep his commandments.

God Is PowerfulBut furthermore, we must realize that God is all powerful. He not only created this earth but he also created us! God allows us to get up every morning and protects us from danger throughout the day. Proverbs 18:10 states that the name of the Lord is a “strong tower.” Whenever we use God’s name it should be to talk to him in prayer, speak about him, or to praise him.

God’s Name Is Worthy of Praise You should never use God’s name because you are angry or upset, surprised, or to prove that you mean what you say. God does not want you to do that. Daniel the prophet said, “Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his,” (Daniel 2:20). This is true. When we think about the goodness of the Lord, his righteousness and power, his name only warrants praise.

God Has Warned Us King David always spoke of the Excellency of God’s name. David said that he would rejoice in the Lord and sing praise unto the Lord’s name. God’s name should never be used loosely in jokes or in foolish talking for holy and reverend is his name (Psalms 111:9). God warned us that he would not hold anyone guiltless for taking his name in vain. Meaning you will be held accountable for doing so.

The End!

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