Christians can easily overlook the transgression of this commandment. In fact, in today’s modern world, we often hear this commandment broken dozens of times each day. How many times do you hear people exclaim—”oh my…” or even worse expressions. This is an obvious transgression of God’s Third Commandment.
You don’t have to say God’s name directly to break the Third Commandment. People often overlook or ignore seemingly innocent expressions known as euphemisms. Dictionary.com defines a “euphemism” as: “The act or an example of substituting a mild, indirect, or vague term for one considered harsh, blunt, or offensive.”
Over time, phrases and words have developed in the English language that are substitutes for God’s name. Because people knew it was wrong to openly blaspheme God’s name, they invented words that sound similar and use those instead. Common euphemisms are “gosh,” “golly,” “oh my,” “my goodness” and “doggone.” These were all replacements for taking God’s name in vain without actually saying it.
Some people routinely exclaim “Jesus Christ” or just “Christ” in anger or surprise. Euphemisms that have developed for these words are “gee,” “gees,” “gesh,” “jeepers creepers” and “jimminy cricket.” Another common euphemism is putting the word “holy” in front of another word. An example would be the phrase “holy cow.” “Holy” is a word that applies to God and the things God calls “holy.” Cows are not holy and neither should we use such an important word so lightly.
For those who struggle with the use of euphemisms, David’s words in Psalm 19:14 are both instructional and inspiring: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.” The purpose of the Third Commandment is not merely to stop us from improperly using God’s name, but to teach us that God’s name is holy and should be reverently praised. In the second half of this verse David sets an example for us by praising God’s name and acknowledging Him as his Redeemer and the source of his strength
Bad habits die hard. Oftentimes, the most effective way to avoid using a euphemism that takes God’s name in vain is to find an alternative. When something exciting, disturbing or sad happens—focus on saying words such as “awesome,” “interesting” or “that’s terrible.” Another alternative is to say nothing at all. King Solomon wrote, “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise” (Proverbs 10:19).
