In Psalms, chapter ninety-nine, verse three, the Lord God is so majestic and holy that even His name must receive the utmost reverence and respect. God should never be taken for granted, for He is enthroned far above humans in strength, justice, purity, and greatness. We must both love and fear God, as in verses one to three, and beware of adopting the world’s casual use of His name.
Taking God’s name “in vain” included making a false promise by it, as in Leviticus nineteen, verse twelve, “And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.” In the New Testament, from Matthew five, verses thirty-three through thirty-seven, states, “Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths. But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne. Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than this cometh of evil.”
Pronouncing His name insincerely or thoughtlessly, or cursing or blaspheming, as in Leviticus twenty-four, verses ten through sixteen. God’s name must be hallowed, honored, and respected as profoundly sacred and used only in a holy manner. The concern in our prayers and lives should be the allowing of the name of God. It is of the utmost importance that God Himself is esteemed, glorified, and exalted.
In our prayers and daily lives, we must be intensely concerned with the reputation of God, His church, His gospel, and His kingdom. Doing something that brings scandal to the Lord’s name and character is a hideous sin that brings shame.