How many times a day do you say, “Oh my God”? How many times do you actually mean it? Do you ever mean it? My guess is no. Never.
When I say “oh my God” in conversation, I never actually intend to invoke God, the Creator of the universe and His righteous power. I am never even thinking about God when I say that. So I tried to stop saying it. But it still pops out sometimes. Shortening it to OMG doesn’t change anything. Neither does stopping at “oh my…” The “God” is implied.
Now this is not a huge deal. At least I don’t think so. It’s just a pattern of speech the means I’m surprised, right? Meaningless.
But God is God. I wonder if He gets aggravated by being part of that phrase. Is that “taking the Lord’s name in vain” which is actually one of the Ten Commandment no-nos?
It makes me think of the boy who cried wolf. How many times can I say “oh my God” before God stops listening? What if I really need God? If I really want His attention on my life and need His power, protection, love, help, comfort…?
If He were like me, He would start ignoring people’s cries when they clearly needed His help, just to teach them a lesson, or for spite.
Fortunately, God is not vindictive or petty like me. Today’s verse clarifies that. He promises that when I call on Him — with integrity — He will be near me. He doesn’t stop listening, no matter how careless I have been with my words.
Dear God,
I’m sorry for using your name in such a thoughtless and casual way that has nothing to do with you. Remind me to only use your name when I am talking about you or to you. Thank you for continuing to listen to me and for answering my cries to you when I am honestly seeking you. I need you and love your promise to be near me. Thank you!
CamDevo 