70 _ THE LAW ON PROFANITY. |

 

only corrupt ourselves and injure others, but we offend a
holy God.

Besides, pieces is the most foolish habit we can in-
dulge in. Nobody is benefited by it, and how it reveals
the natural sinfulness of the human heart. No wonder.
that God made such a severe law against the blasphemer.
Let us beware that we never commit this great sin, for
some day God will bring us into judgment for every idle
word. But God is merciful, and ready to forgive those
who are truly sorry for their sins. We have his great
mercy shown in the Bible toward a man who. had been
profane, but who was very penitent, weeping bitter tears.

It was Peter; he was filled with great fear and cow-
ardice, when he saw the Savior in the hands of his ene-
mies. He was afraid to be known as the friend of Jesus,
for fear he would have to suffer too; so, when they asked
him if he knew Jesus, he denied it with an oath. The sin
seemed almost beyond the mercy of God, but when God
saw that Peter was very sorry for what'he had done, he
forgave him and loved him just as before. When we sin,
we should go atonce and confess it to Jesus, and we
shall find forgiveness. But let us not forget that God is
pure and holy, and if we use his name carelessly or lightly
in any way, it is taking it in vain.