The use of language may be one of the greatest challenges for Christians seeking to live the Christian life. There was a time in our culture when profanity and vulgar speech was something that was recognized as wrong. It does appear today that foul language has become common even in what at one time we referred to as “polite company.” Not only do sailors talk like sailors but so do young and seemingly innocent boys and girls.
Of course foul and vulgar language is nothing new. It has been a problem through the ages. Still when we as Christians engage in this kind of talk, it does reflect poorly on our heavenly Father. Every family has a reputation that may or not have been earned or deserved. So also does the family of God. My prayer is that God’s family would not be demeaned through my language or actions.
Even worse than using vulgar speech is using God’s holy name in sinful and repulsive ways. When we pray, “Hallowed by Thy name,” may we again be reminded of the importance of proper speech in the family of God.
Nevertheless, we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. It is important to remember during this Lenten season that Jesus went to the cross to pay for our misuse of His holy name. When we thoughtlessly take God’s name in vain, may we return to Jesus and hear him exclaim, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
Prayer: O Father in heaven, let your name be holy in my life and among my friends and family. When I fail to use my words the way I should, bring me to repentance and grant me forgiveness. Amen.
God’s richest blessings in Christ,
Pastor Philip Quardokus
Download a pdf of all the Lenten devotions here.
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