Profanity has moved into society’s mainstream in a big way. Inappropriate and rude expressions lace movies, magazines, literature, social media, television, and conversations. From high-profile celebrities to kids in the classroom, four-letter words are too routinely part of the language. Words that only a few years ago were never heard in polite company, are now so common we seldom even flinch.
What do we do about it?
Perhaps the first impulse of members of the Christian community is to avoid people, events, and publications that present exposure. Nearly impossible! Besides, we can do better than avoid or ignore. We can acknowledge and understand the problem, educate ourselves and our children, and set a consistently good example.
Why has language become so raw? Researchers suggest the cause is linked to the growing lack of respect for authority of all kinds. People swear for any number of reasons—none of them very good ones.
Some think swearing is sophisticated or liberating or “in.” When influential men, women, or young people swear, they send the message that swearing is acceptable. Their examples change customs and put a stamp of approval on what was not tolerable before.
Others swear to add emphasis or to be funny. Some writers seem to believe foul language makes stories realistic. Much swearing is simply due to ignorance or laziness: the speaker or writer just isn’t smart enough or capable enough to express ideas without resorting to obscenities.
Even aside from obvious religious and moral factors, foul language is decidedly negative. Foul mouthed people, as much as they like to think otherwise, give the impression of having less than a firm grip on themselves or on their knowledge of language. They most often appear undisciplined and ignorant.
USA Today, reporting on the prevalence of profanity, quotes James O’Connor, author of Cuss Control: The Complete Book on How to Curb Your Cursing: “Whether it’s a rare, angry outburst or habitual blue patter, cursing imposes a personal penalty on the swearer.” He notes:
Swearing:
• Gives a bad impression
• Makes you unpleasant to be with
• Endangers your relationships
• Reduces the respect people have for you
• Shows that you don’t have control
• Is a sign of a bad attitude
• Is a tool for whiners and complainers
• Discloses a lack of character and moral integrity
• Is immature
• Reflects ignorance
• Sets a bad example
Christians can take a proactive role in reversing the everybody-does-it myth.
The issue can be addressed at home, in the workplace, in classrooms, and in the pulpit. We can influence both children and adults to see that filthy language is just that—filthy. They can learn that many people really don’t ever use these words. That swearing diminishes them and their message. That there is a better way.
“Let the words of my mouth ... be acceptable in Thy sight ...” —Psalm 19:14
