The psalmist described the name of the Lord as a strong tower, one which the righteous
can run into and be safe. From our text, we learn of a number of things that are made
possible through the use of the Lord’s name. Subduing demons, protection from harm,
healing and restoration are all benefits that we can derive from using the name of the
Lord. However, there is a caveat: the name of the Lord must be sanctified. The third
commandment states: “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the
Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.” (Exodus‬

“If we reduce the things of God to mere comedy, we forfeit their inherent power.”

How do people take the name of the Lord in vain? Breaking promises and covenant is
tantamount to taking the name of the Lord in vain. A child of God must be known as a
promise keeper. His word must be his bond. Generally, any lifestyle of sin is taking the
name of the Lord in vain. Remember David’s liaison with Bathsheba. Nathan averred
that David’s sinful action gave occasion to the enemies of God to speak reproachfully.
Finally, every form of blasphemy is taking the name of the Lord in vain. Blasphemy is
defined as insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God. There is
something I found worrisome. I have come across skit makers using the name of the
Lord for absurd comedy. They do that to entertain people and gather likes on their
various social media handles. They forget that no one can mock God. If we reduce the
things of God to mere comedy, we forfeit their inherent power.