A Bar of Soap

Grades 1-3

Mom made it very clear to us not to use God’s name badly. She taught us that God’s name is very special and He deserves respect.

She told us that a good time to use God’s name is when we pray. When we pray, we show God that we love him.

There are other times when people use God’s name badly. They say his name like a bad word. When we use God’s name badly, we do not show him honor.

If we used God’s name badly or said a naughty word, Mom would wash our mouth out with soap. The bar of soap helps us to remember to keep our mouth clean and pure. God’s name is so holy that it should be used with love.

I wondered, “Would Mom really use a bar of soap on my tongue if I said something bad?” As a little kid, I decided to test mom’s threats. I said a naughty word and made sure everyone heard it. Immediately, Mom got the bar of soap and washed my mouth out with it.

“Yuck!” I had it coming and I knew it. I learned this lesson the hard way. I should not use bad words or disrespect God’s name. After that, I never thought about swearing or using God’s name badly again. I still think of that time and don’t swear now that I’m an adult.

I hope that the next time you think of saying God’s name badly or saying a bad word, you will remember the bar of soap. Let our speech be clean and pure just like a bar of soap.

1. What happened to the person telling the story when she used a bad word?
2. What did the bar of soap signify or mean?
3. How does a parent discipline us when we do something we should not do?

1. How can we honor God with our words?
2. What are some ways that you can love God?
3. Discuss ways to use God’s name respectfully.