Week 31: What is the right way to use God’s name?

Parents choose names for their children for all kinds of reasons. They may simply like the sound of the name or the meaning that it has. Sometimes, parents name their children after another family member, special friend, or a person in the Bible. Names are important in Scripture, but no name is more significant than the name of the Lord. This week’s devotion will focus on using God’s name in the right way.

Be ready to read the following passages:

Let’s start it.

Do you know why you were given the name you have? If you were named after a particular person, discuss what led your parents to give you that name. You can also use a search engine to look up the meaning of each family member’s name. Does your name accurately represent something about you?

Let’s learn it.

Names in the Bible often represented an event at the time of the child’s birth or expressed the parents’ desire for the kind of life the child would have. But God’s name expresses His character far more than any human name ever could. That’s why the third commandment is so important. Ask a family member to read Exodus 20:7 to start our discussion on the name of God.

The command not to misuse God’s name implies that it should be used correctly – with reverence and respect. However, our society has forgotten what it means for God’s name to be precious. Even Christians sometimes casually or jokingly use phrases containing God’s name. We need to break any habit of saying the name of the Lord when we aren’t talking directly about Him or to Him.

To better understand why God’s name should be used with such respect, we need a better understanding of what His name means. There are many names for God in the Bible because His nature cannot be expressed in just one name. What do you learn about God’s name or character from the following verses – Psalm 47:2, Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 54:5, 1 Timothy 1:17?

Wow! Is it any wonder that we should use the name of our God with such respect? His name is awesome – literally!

Let’s discuss it.

  1. How do you feel and react when God’s name is misused around you?
  2. Give examples of proper ways to use the name of the Lord.

Let’s do it.

The command not to misuse the name of the Lord should motivate followers of Christ to always use God’s name with reverence and respect. Look for opportunities this week to make God’s character known by using His name in ways that honor Him. When your words give God the credit and the glory for what is happening in your life, you honor His name. How can you show respect for His name throughout the week? Keep in mind that how we talk about God matters to Him.