Taking the Lord’s Name in vain
September 27th, 2008 by Bill Perry in Spirituality“Thou shalt not take the Lord’s Name in Vain”
What exactly does that mean? Does it mean that we should not, in the literal sense, say “Damn” or “Dammit” after saying “God”?
No.
In order to understand what I mean by that, consider what God’s name is.
God’s name is “I AM”. When you invoke the Lord’s name, you are saying “I AM”.
God does not intend to have us shame ourselves, or treat ourselves worse than we would treat someone else.
So, next time you say something to yourself like “I AM stupid” or “I AM fat” or “I AM ugly”, stop yourself, and think about how you could phrase that more appropriately and in a positive and healthy manner.
Instead of “I AM Stupid”, try “I AM still learning”
“I AM fat” can turn into “I AM perfect the way I am”.
“I AM Ugly” Instead try “I AM beautiful because this is how God made me”.
A good rule of thumb here is to ask yourself, “If I were talking to God right now, would God tell me I’m stupid, fat and ugly?”
I didn’t think so
Here is a great meditation my Aunt taught me:
“I am happy, I am healthy, I am great!”
say that at least 3 times, and it’s guaranteed to heighten your mood. More often than not, I end up laughing with incredible joy when I do this.


July 29th, 2010 at 10:17 pm
Interesting thought… I always wondered about this myself for a long time. Now, I can’t really say that I fully agree as I try to refrain as much as I can to say the words “damn” or “damn it” after “God” as I don’t feel comfortable using it and I really feel guilty. I seem to have gotten used to it. But your point does make sense on “I am”.