Them’s fightin’ words!

When I was a boy in school, nothing would evoke a physical encounter faster than when someone spoke about another person’s parents. “Don’t you talk about my Momma/Daddy!” were usually the last words spoken before the punches began to be thrown. Why did those words elicit combative anger? It is because someone who is loved and respected has been insulted. Such disrespect is unacceptable. An immature person may try to defend their loved one’s honor through physicality. Such behavior is not so surprising concerning the response of a child. Even the Bible speaks of immature behavior from children. The apostle Paul wrote, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child…” (1 Cor. 13:11). But as an adult, God expects our behavior to be mature. Completing the previous scripture Paul continued by saying, “…but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”

Does this mean that as an adult it will not bother you if someone is expressing disrespect toward your parents? Of course it will bother you! But your response is no longer one of a child. You will, in an adult, Christian manner, let the offender know you do not appreciate their words. You will ask them to please refrain from showing disdain for your loved ones. The offender may not change their language. But you have boldly, yet calmly, voiced your disapproval. Your parents would be proud.

Let’s take this scenario to a higher level. What if someone disrespects your heavenly Father? Does that bother you? Does it upset you? Do you in an adult Christian manner let the offender know that you do not appreciate their disdain for your heavenly Father? You would respond in defense of your earthly Mother and Father. Are they more important than your heavenly Father?

God’s name is verbalized on a daily basis as part of normal speech by young and old alike. The term “O my God” is used casually as an expression of emotion, excitement, disbelief, dismay or surprise. We seldom hear this phrase used for the purpose of speaking to God.

Moses wrote, “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” (Ex. 20:7). God makes it plain that those who treat his name irreverently will be punished. Someone may argue, “That is Old Testament instruction!” Yes, it is, but it is repeated by Jesus in the New Testament. Jesus taught that God’s name is to be “hallowed” (Matt. 6:9). 

At this point someone may try to defend their flippant use of God’s name by arguing, “I do not mean any disrespect to God!” or, “I say gosh instead of God.” Please understand, words have meaning regardless of your intent. “Gosh” is a euphemistic alteration of “God.” Man invented that word (a nickname) so as to not feel the guilt of uttering God’s name in vain. Therefore, if it is wrong to use God’s name irreverently; (O my God)…, then it is wrong to use a word made up to replace God’s name; (O my Gosh). Society does not determine what is right or wrong concerning the use of God’s name. Jesus said that we will be judged for every careless word we speak (Matt. 12:36). I cringe when I hear my heavenly Father’s name used so flippantly. God’s very name is holy, sacred and should be revered. 

 If you would verbalize offense when your earthly parents are disrespected, why would you not be offended even greater when your heavenly Father is dishonored? Please stop disrespecting my heavenly Father by using His name in vain! Will you join me in boldly, yet calmly voicing disapproval of using God's name in vain?