The Lord's name in vain
In the ten commandments, we read "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.
There is no other name under heaven that is used irreverently on a daily basis and with such force than the name of Jesus Christ. It is a careless misuse of his divine name showing disrespect and insensitivity. It is unproductive, meaningless and useless.
The verbal act of taking the Lord's name in vain is often said with anger, frustration and disappointment when the person doing it has done something wrong or when something has gone wrong. However, this is not always the case as that person may do it out of shear surprise or fright and other such contexts that suddenly stir the emotions. Nevertheless, it is nearly always said in a negative context and is akin to cussing in a casual and negative way that seems to blame the Lord for one's misfortune. Woe unto that person who engages in it for he or she will not be held guiltless who take the Lord's name in vain.
This act is a global phenomenon, which is heard in the digital and entertainment worlds (e.g. on tv, radio, Internet or in movies etc.). It is heard out of the mouths of the people going about their daily routines. It spreads like wild fire, inextinguishable. It frustrates my sensitivities when I hear it.
You might ask, how did this happen or why is this happening. I would like to remind you that Satan (that old serpent) has been proactive in destroying the works of the Lord from the beginning at every opportunity he can get. Nothing is exempt from his relentless plan of destruction including the commandment 'do not take the Lord's name in vain'. It is crystal clear that when the Lord says 'no', Satan says 'yes' reasoning with the minds and hearts of the people. Drawing them to his will. So, how did this happen? A command was given to Moses from God on Sinai with a 'do not' instruction. Why is this happening? Satan wants people (whether they know it or not) to break that command with a 'do it' instruction. In our time and day, he has been very successful in that cause. Although millions of Christians adhere to this law, there are the multitudes who engage in it for whatever reasons that may be, including self-professed Christians.
To reiterate, whose name is being taken in vain that fits this bleak description. It is the name of Jesus Christ. Consider for a moment if you will, a man stubs his toe on the ground and out of frustration he calls your name in vain with anger, "oh John Doe". Imagine this occurring on a daily basis with reference to your name, you would quickly realize the annoyance and irreverence of it all. You being the one under attack as Jesus is, all day, every day.
The purpose of this post is to draw your attention to the phrase the the 'Lord thy God' suggesting that the name taken in vain is being identified as god. For me, that name is Jesus Christ who is subjected to this verbal abuse without any end in sight. This is more prevalent due to advances in digital technology and exposes us to it every day. The commandment to refrain from the reckless use of the name of deity is central to Christianity emphasizing the importance of reverence for God's name. It highlights the importance of understanding God's name as sacred and powerful and of treating it with respect and humility.
This commandment is significant in that it identifies and exalts Jesus to the status of a god. Your opinions are always welcomed.
