Profanity

The first topic I wish to discuss is the perverse language that is commonplace in our world. We hear it all around us. It's on television, in movies, in music.  It bombards us in our workplaces, in social settings etc.

So let's start with a question. What makes swearing bad?  Are there scriptural passages regarding the matter?  Can we draw closer to our Father in Heaven when we use such language?  These are serious questions that require serious answers. 

I do not swear. I was taught from my youth that it was a bad habit and the easiest way to avoid it was to never start, and to pick friends that don't swear. I understand as do you, that it is a hard habit to break, and it becomes part of who we are. 

When we pick up swearing, we make a statement about who we are, how we feel, how we think, how we view the world we live in. If we swear and cuss, we begin to choose who we want in our company. We will draw towards others who swear, and draw them towards us. We will also draw away from those who abstain from swearing and push them away. Who we associate with plays a major role in the course of our lives. In every step we take in our lives, we are either drawing towards God, or we a drawing nearer to the adversary. So if we desire to count ourselves as a friend of God, we need to speak in such a manner. 

Swearing is typically spoken in anger. When something doesn't go our way, it is often natural for people to burst out in cursing. Other times people swear when they joke and laugh. I have never heard swearing used in praising God, or in building up their fellow men. See where this is going. Swearing is directly related to light mindedness. We cannot be serious in our minds while giving way to habit. 

When I hear a man swearing the impression it leaves in my mind regarding their character is that the individual lacks self governance and control. That individual caves easily to the social pressures around them, and by connection, you can expect to see the same tendencies in other aspects of their lives. While this habit does not condemn them, nevertheless it is a weakness and it is often a stumbling block. 

An argument I have heard is that because it is so commonplace and accepted by society that it is not bad. I'm sorry, since when are we instructed to allow society to dictate morality and ethical standards?  Again, this attitude draws us towards the world and away from Christ. 

One of the worlds views is that swearing is a sign that you are tough and strong. Yet the reality is that rather than becoming stronger individuals, we are assimilating into the social collective. We are becoming a sheep among other sheep. 

I do not intend to attack or belittle those who happen to have this habit or other negative habits. Nor do I intend to place myself on s pedestal to claim I am better than someone else. I have my faults and shortcomings too. My point is, that if we want to grow, we need to have an honest look at ourselves, see where we need to improve, then DO IT. If swearing is an area you struggle with, try to improve it. Think about what you say.  Speak deliberately and purposefully. Learn how to effectively communicate.