How can we ensure our actions honor God's "holy name" today? Verse for Today “I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations — the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the LORD,” declares the Lord GOD, “when I show My holiness in you before their eyes.” (Ezekiel 36:23) Why God’s Name Matters - God links His reputation to His people; when we live rightly, the world sees His holiness. - To “profane” means to treat as common; to “sanctify” means to set apart as supremely valuable. - Our daily choices either dim or display His glory to watching eyes. How Our Actions Can Magnify His Name - Reverent words • Speak of Him carefully, never casually or flippantly (Exodus 20:7). - Consistent character • Keep promises, tell the truth, flee hypocrisy (Proverbs 12:22; Matthew 5:37). - Moral purity • Guard thoughts, media intake, and relationships (1 Peter 1:15-16). - Compassionate deeds • Serve the needy, forgive quickly, practice sacrificial love (John 13:34-35). - Joyful worship • Gather faithfully, sing wholeheartedly, study Scripture eagerly (Psalm 96:8-9). - Workplace integrity • Work “heartily, as for the Lord” no matter who is watching (Colossians 3:23-24). - Bold yet humble witness • Share the gospel graciously, letting light shine before others (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 3:15). Practical Checks to Guard Against Dishonor - Ask, “Would this decision make sense if Jesus stood visibly beside me?” - Invite honest feedback from mature believers about blind spots. - Track speech patterns; repent quickly of gossip, crude jokes, or complaining. - Review finances and calendar; they reveal what we truly honor. - Keep short accounts with God: immediate confession restores fellowship (1 John 1:9). Motivations That Keep Us Faithful - His holiness: God is utterly set apart; honoring Him is the only proper response. - His grace: He cleansed our past failures, enabling new obedience (Titus 2:11-12). - His mission: Our obedience draws outsiders toward salvation (1 Peter 2:12). - His reward: He promises eternal joy for those who revere His name (Malachi 3:16-17). Scriptures That Reinforce the Call - 1 Corinthians 10:31 — “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” - Colossians 3:17 — “Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” - Psalm 34:3 — “Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together.” - Isaiah 29:23 — “They will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and stand in awe of the God of Israel.” |
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