Don't Wear The Cross Without The Calling

---

Grand rising.

Today, I feel called to share something about the concept of “taking God’s name in vain.”

Most people think it means don't curse. But I suspect that God has bigger concerns than our clumsy language.

Here’s who I know breaks His heart:

People who wear crosses but don't walk the walk. Who call themselves believers but push for war because it lines their pockets. Who adopt Christ's banner because it's trendy, not because He is truth.

Wolves in sheep's clothing. Using God's name to get ahead in business while living in unrepentant sin. "Prophets" who refuse uncomfortable truths because it might cost followers.

People who confuse God's will with their own will—or worse, who try to convince others that their will is God's will because they want to play king of kings.

School builders who make excuses for why the Bible can't be in the classroom. Who wear the cross as jewelry but treat discipleship as optional.

The English phrase "taking God's name in vain" comes from: "לא תשא את־שם־יהוה אלהיך לשוא" (lo tissa et-shem-YHWH eloheikha lashav).

The original Hebrew reveals God's real intent. "Take" (Tissa) means to lift or bear. "In vain" (lashav) means emptiness or worthlessness.

The commandment isn't about speech—it's about bearing God's name while emptying it of meaning.

It’s about bearing the cross as a calling, not as a costume.

In 1973, Billy Graham was voted the most admired man in the world. America fell off over those next 50 years.

As Christianity becomes culturally cool again, be honest with yourself: are you using Christ to get ahead in this world or to keep covenant with the next?

The cross isn't an accessory. It's an altar where your old self dies and His life begins. Remember that this morning and every morning.