Respecting God

My friends often ask me why, when I write, I capitalize the nouns depicting God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus when I am typing verses from Bible versions that do not capitalize them in their text.  The nouns are he, him, me, mine, those kinds of words.  The only answer I can give is that I respect the names of the Godhead.  Therefore, I will capitalize these nouns, as this signifies respect.

Growing up in church, I was instructed at an early age to always capitalize the first letter of any reference to God.  Summarily, I was also taught to never capitalize the name, or any reference, of the enemy, satan, even if it is the first word of a sentence.  he is not deserving of this respect given to God.  This methodology has become second nature to me, something I automatically adhere to.  I cannot change it, and do not intend to even try.  It is one small way I can show my Father the respect He deserves.  Please take note; I do not infer in any way that the publishers of versions of the Bible are at fault in the way they choose to print the holy Word of God.  If they are true to the original texts, that is the important thing.  I currently favor the English Standard Version, which does not capitalize the first letter of he, him, me, mine, etc.  But when I am typing or writing, it will be He, Him, Me, Mine, and so forth.

There are many ways to show respect, and disrespect, towards the Godhead.  I was taught from a toddler not to run in church, to be quiet and well-behaved, and to give deference to my elders.  When I was a little older I realized this shows respect for God’s house.  That doesn’t mean one can’t laugh and have fun, or that we can’t hold a party in church, or celebrate special occasions.  It means that we be respectful of the church building that God dwells in, where His people worship, where they have unity and harmony.  God’s Word rings out in the building, and ministry is in progress in many ways.  The atmosphere should always be one of quiet congeniality, or, respect.

Another way to show respect is in how we treat the physical building itself.  Do we keep it in good repair? Do we make sure it is secured and safe?  Are we careful about who uses the premises, that the motives are in keeping with our beliefs?  We must make sure that if we want to show God the proper respect regarding His church, then we will do so with dedication and love.  Not for the building…for the One who dwells within.

Respect is important, to man, and to God.  Without it, we cannot truly be devoted, and we show we do not care.  If we are true Christians, devout followers of Christ, then we must show respect.  He is no respecter of persons, yet He loves us all.  He cares for us as individuals, not as persons.  There is a difference.  Remember that in respect to Him.

‘Ascribe to the LORD glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him!  Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.’  1 Chronicles 16:29 (ESV)

Blessings!