Words

God does not like it when we thoughtlessly use His name. He even included it as one of the commandments. Obviously, we should not cuss and swear - that is a huge sin - but is it possible that there are other ways to profane God's name?

The Bible says, "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." But how do we take God's name in vain? As previously stated, swearing and cursing would be placed in this category, but is that all? Have you ever considered that some phrases like "Oh my goodness" and other related ones might be taking God's name in vain? When you say, "Oh my goodness," you are taking the praise that belongs to God and giving it to yourself.

God is holy. His name is holy. It should not be played with. We should be careful how we talk about Him and how we use His name. God isn't pleased when we use casual phrases that disregard His name. A famous author I like to quote wrote, "By the thoughtless mention of God in common conversation... and by the frequent and thoughtless repetition of His name, we dishonor Him." (White, 306) Another time she said, "Burning words of passion should never be spoken, for in the sight of God and holy angels they are as a species of swearing." (White, 439).

Another example includes "Oh my God." It is commonly used in casual conversation to express surprise, happiness, worry, concern, and multiple more feelings. But is that not taking God's name in vain? When we say that phrase, we are messing with God's holy name. We are putting God's holy name into a conversation that is casual and common. The Bible says, "Holy and reverend is His name." (KJV, Psalm 111.9).

We need to be careful and not just put God's name in casual conversation. God does not like it when we thoughtlessly use His name. His name is holy, and it must be treated so. ~ Alice

Sources:

White, Ellen Gould Harmon. The Story of Patriarchs and Prophets. Review and Herald Publishing Association, 1890, p. 306.

White, Ellen Gould Harmon. The Adventist Home. Review and Herald Publishing Assoc., 1952, p. 439.

"Psalm 111 (KJV) - Holy and reverend is His name." Blue Letter Bible. Web. 31 Jul, 2022. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/kjv/psa/111/9/s_589009>.