Bible Study

Title: What's Wrong with Swearing?
Date: Aug 5, 2005
Topic(s): Speech/Words
Scripture: Psalm 19:4, Matthew 12:33-37, Proverbs 4:20-27, Proverbs 13:3, Ephesians 5:3-4, Ephesians 4:29-32, James 3:10-12

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Swearing or cursing is more than using God's name in vain; it includes obscenities, profanity and what the Bible calls foolish speaking--meaningless talk that tears others down (Ephesians 5:3-4). If we want to follow Christ, these things shouldn't characterize our speech. He is our model for everything, including what we do and say when we're angry.

What Does God Say?

We can do a lot of damage in the heat of the moment with swear words or critical, angry words. Ephesians 4:29 says, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." And Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us to put away "all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor...along with all malice" and instead "be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Take a look at Proverbs 4:20-27 and outline the key attitudes about your speech.

My Thoughts

Maybe it's time for a self-check:

• When do you find yourself using your favorite swear words?
• If anger is generally your trigger, reflect on James 3:10-12 and Matthew 12:33-37.
• What do your words reveal about your heart?
• How do you feel after you've said these things? How do you think other people feel when your words are directed at them?
• What changes do you need to make in the words you use?

My Part

Try using the Bible as a mouth guard, like an athlete wears to protect his or mouth. Proverbs 13:3 says,

"Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life;
he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin."

• When you want to say something you shouldn't, pull up Psalm 19:14:
  "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
  Be acceptable in your sight,
  O LORD, my rock and my redeemer."

Review the attitudes from Proverbs 4:20-27, and tack them on your mirror, your desk at work or on the fridge as a daily reminder.

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