I recently watched a sitcom in which the phrase, "Oh my God" was uttered over 20 times prior to the fest commercial. Sadly, it was NEVER spoken in a prayer or to glorify our heavenly Father. It was used to exclaim surprise or unbelief. To make matters worse, it’s offhanded use invariably produced laughter from the audience.
Although we are not surprised to hear God's name misused in movies, TV and in the world, I am shocked that some Christians still take His name in vain.
Some ask, "What's wrong with occasionally exclaiming, ‘Oh my God’ or something similar?” It is wrong because the Bible strictly warns against referring to God in a casual or flippant manner.
- “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain (void of meaning), for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain” (Exod. 20:7).
- “...nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the LORD" (Lev. 19:12).
- “But I say to you that for every idle (empty, useless) word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” (Mt. 12:36).
Moreover, David declared, "Holy and awesome (reverend or revered) is His name..." (Psa. 111:9b). Uttering God's name without appropriate respect is tantamount to insulting Him.
Tragically, it has become increasingly popular to abbreviate "Oh my God" by saying, writing or typing “OMG”. Some attempt to justify this practice by saying, "At least I'm not saying "God!" That’s beside the point; virtually everyone is aware of what “OMG” means.
Jesus warned, "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (Mt. 12:37). Don't allow careless words to jeopardize your salvation. Strive to always honor God whenever you refer to His name. Let's heed the fervent prayer of David, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord…” (Psa. 19:14).
A recommitted me in 2023!
Dennis