August 5, 2026

CARRYING THE NAME

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name.”

Exodus 20:7 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

The third commandment deals directly with the sacred nature of God’s name. In ancient Jewish culture, the name of the Lord (Yahweh) was considered so holy that people were hesitant to even speak it aloud, fearing they might treat it with disrespect.

Our text warns: “You must not misuse the name of the Lord.” In many traditional Bible translations, this is written as "You shall not take the name of the Lord in vain." But in the original Hebrew, the word translated as "misuse" or "take" literally means "to carry" or "to bear."

This changes everything.

Think of Aaron, the High Priest, preparing to enter the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle. Over his linen robe, he wore a breastplate set with twelve precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel. As Aaron stepped into the presence of God, he was physically carrying the names and identity of the people before the Lord.

As followers of Christ today, we bear the name Christian—literally meaning "little Christs." Wherever we go, we carry the reputation, authority, and character of the Lord into the world. The Apostle Paul underscores this duty in his letter to the Colossians:

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” — Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

So, how do we ensure we aren't carrying His name "in vain" (emptily or falsely)? Paul breaks it down into two main areas:

1. Carrying His Name in Our Deeds

Just a few verses before Colossians 3:17, Paul paints a picture of what a true representative looks like. He tells believers to "clothe" themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love (Colossians 3:12–14).

When we claim the name of Jesus publicly yet treat others with bitterness, arrogance, or cruelty in private, we are misrepresenting Him. We are carrying His name in vain—falsely advertising who He is to a watching world. If there is nothing visibly distinct about our kindness, grace, and integrity compared to the world around us, we are missing the mark of this commandment.

2. Carrying His Name in Our Words

Jesus addressed this directly in the Sermon on the Mount, warning against making flippant vows or using God's name lightly to prove we are telling the truth (Matthew 5:34–37).

While the third commandment certainly forbids using God’s name as a profane curse word, it goes much deeper. It forbids using God’s name manipulatively.

Throughout history, people have used God’s name to justify selfish ambition, place spiritual "curses" on enemies, or gain leverage over others. You may have heard someone drop a phrase like "God told me to tell you..." or "Thus says the Lord..." simply to pressure someone into doing what they want. Using God’s holy name as a tool for personal control or manipulation is a serious misuse of His identity.

Reflection Questions:

1. When people look at your daily choices, workplace habits, and attitude under stress, do they see a faithful representation of Jesus?

2. Have you ever used "spiritual language" or invoked God's name to manipulate a situation or validate your own personal desire?

3. What is one practical way you can "clothe yourself" in kindness or patience this week to better carry His name?

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, examine my heart and my habits. Show me any area where my actions or words are misrepresenting who You are. Forgive me for the times I have carried Your name lightly or used it selfishly. Grant me the grace to bear Your name with honor, integrity, and love wherever I go. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”