April 6, 2020
What does it say?
God specified the penalty for blasphemy and gave instructions concerning restitution and punishment for other offenses that would, in essence, fit the crime.
What does it mean?
Israel was being established as a nation chosen by God to carry His message of hope, life, and a future with Him to the entire world. In the midst of setting standards for righteous living, worship, and fellowship, an incident occurred that demandedimmediate attention. Just a short time before, God had given the commandment: “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.” A blasphemer rejected God’s moral law by using God’s name in a curse. God used the incident to remind Israel that He is holy – and those who want to live with Him must honor His holy, righteous character.
How should I respond?
Our society has become accustomed to hearing God’s name misused. God takes His name and His Son’s name seriously because His name reveals His glory to His people. The Father sent the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ name; salvation is in Jesus’ name; and one day every knee will bow “at the name of Jesus” (Philippians 2:10). The Lord knows your name and your character. How well do you know Him? How can you show honor to your Savior’s name as you pray and as you interact with others? Pray for those who misuse His name, and extend grace to them as God extended grace to you.