This is a part of the Command blog series where we’re talking about how the Ten Commandments aren’t just a dusty set of tablets with dumb rules . . . by a long shot!
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain. Exodus 20:7
Newsflash: Taking God’s name in vain doesn’t simply ban us from saying OMG. However . . .
1. Saying OMG is out of the question.
When we say OMG, it is in a moment of anger or even hilarity, used in an instance when others would cuss or use inappropriate language. Regardless of the emotion, it is used flippantly and carelessly.
Many people that use OMG do not claim to be Christians, meaning they’re invoking a God they willingly and daily rebel against.
Growing up, I knew that saying OMG was bad, but I never quite understood why. Those three words put together, in fact, seemed almost like a terrible curse and they have never once passed my lips. Maybe you’re a “goody two shoes” like me . . . if so, keep reading . . .
2. Using God’s name flippantly.
But do we ever use God’s name flippantly? Do we crack jokes about Jesus (you know what I’m talking about) or re-pin memes that use His name? Do we ever go along with those misusing His name along those lines? Even some bumper stickers take the name of God lightly and seem irreverent. These, too, are all taking God’s name in vain.
3. Coaxing God
When I looked up other meanings of this command, I also found that “taking God’s name in vain” can mean using it to coax God to do things out of His character or purposes.
So that would be like Satan in the wilderness tempting Jesus to turn rocks into bread. We obviously don’t tempt Jesus, but instead we may ask Him to take revenge on someone we hate. Or we may ask Him for something we clearly know is out of His will.
This doesn’t mean we can’t ask God for things in fear we’re “taking His name in vain.” But be careful in your prayers! Are you asking for this because you want to further the kingdom, or are you greedy with the knowledge of a “better” and “more comfortable” future?
I hope this helped to widen your perspective on what this third commandment means! Keep on the lookout for a continuation of this series!
Past posts in the Command series
- No graven images (command two)
- No other gods (command one)
This was so good, thank you for writing on this topic!
You are so welcome! I know it’s a difficult topic but important regardless.
Thank you for the entry! It would be nice to have had more clarification with OMG. Some say, “Oh, my gosh” and some say “Oh, my God!” We have a problem with both and never allowed our children to say either. However, often in our culture in writing and in person, we continually hear “Oh, my gosh” as well as the other. We are trying to teach our granchildren not to use that phrase, but it seems useless as all around us they and we hear it!!! My daughter still laughs as she remembers my removal of clothing tags that… Read more »