Bible verses for children

Use God’s name with care.

Exodus 20:7

“You shall not misuse the name of Yahweh your God, for Yahweh will not hold him guiltless who misuses his name.

Exodus 20:7 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)

In simple words

What does this verse mean?

God’s name deserves respect. Misusing it can include using it carelessly or claiming that God supports a lie. We should not use “God says” to make someone obey something we have invented. Speaking about God brings a responsibility to be truthful.

If someone says God wants you to keep an unsafe secret, tell a trusted grown-up. God’s name must not be used to frighten you into accepting harm.

Talk about it

Why is it important not to claim that God said something we made up?

An example from the Bible

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A little more to explore

Bible context & readings +

This command is part of Exodus 20, where God teaches the people he brought out of slavery. Yahweh is the name used for God in this translation. The command concerns honouring that name, including how people use it in serious claims and promises.