Lesson 5: On Swearing, a Primer

Son(s),

Let's just start with this: Coffee is an adult drink.

Mainly adults drink it, it generally isn't good for children, not is it usually liked. When you are young, we won't let you drink coffee because it isn't good for you and you won't be able to handle the caffeine.

You also can't have alcohol, or watch rated R movies, or drive, or vote or participate in various other activities before a certain age or level of maturity.

The same thing is true with language.

Words are powerful. Words have incited the biggest changes in world history. Nothing can be used to unite or divide more decisively than words.

So when you are old enough, when you are mature enough, then I give you the keys to your own mouth. I don't have a list of words that are off limit for myself or other adults. Because while words are powerful, it is what lies behind them that gives them their power. What is in your heart is what is most important.

I will offer this advice however, be careful what you say.

Regardless if a word or phrase is considered vulgar, if it is used as a weapon to harm another person, it is profane. The combination of letters that make up a swear word don't make that word profane or not, it is the intent that makes a word profane.

Jesus puts it like this when he says, "It's who you are, not what you say and do, that counts. Your true being brims over into true words and deeds." (The Message)

I swear. Your mother swears. But we never swear out of anger. We don't use our words to wound as best as we can.

So go ahead and say those four letter words, and also bitch which has five, but make sure that love is your focus. Let that four letter word inform your speech. Let your words leave your mouth to encourage others, worship God and be a witness of Jesus' change in your life. If in the moment the best way to do that is to use a swear word, then go ahead. If the best way to live peaceably among your brothers (or your grandparents) is to not swear, then don't. Have compassion on those who feel that it is immoral to swear, because for them it is. Or maybe the Holy Spirit will convict you differently than He has convicted me and it will be immoral for you to swear, and that's just great!

Above all, your heart is what matters.

Love,

Dad