Language. It is the mode of communication. One of the glaring issues of our day is the lack of concern with what language we use.

How are words supposed to be used as a Christ-follower?

It is a discussion I've had numerous times with students. What is wrong with saying, " ." It is what I call sin rationalization:

Students feel the need to rationalize their decisions based upon two reasons: 1. They compare to what other people are doing in order to make themselves feel better. 2. They downplay the meaning of words based upon social acceptance.

A better question is, "What is RIGHT with it, instead of what is WRONG with it."

We have seen rationalization all throughout history. In the Garden of Eden, Satan was the first to institute the question, "What is the big deal?" Adam and Eve chose to disobey God. Fast forward to 2012. We are living in a postmodern, moral relativistic culture. Conviction has been traded in for relativism. Right and wrong is thrown up in the air for the culture to decide.

Have we lost the truth of God's Word even in Christian families?

Back to language. I've heard many reasonings of why we use cursing (or "cussing" if you are from the south).

Top reasons for cursing: (I've heard) - "It is how I was brought up, I don't really mean the words." - "Well in this culture (or that one) that word isn't wrong." - "I'm just being real, I might as well tell you what I think." - "It is just a word!"

Let's look at what God's Word says about how a follower of Christ should talk:

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29

For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Matthew 12:34.

And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you. Matthew 12:36-37.

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23.

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2.

Try to ask these 5 questions and THINK before you speak: Is it... True? Gossip 101: “The more interesting it is, the more likely it is to be false.” Helpful? Will your words help bring about a solution to a problem? Inspiring? Will your words build up someone? Necessary? Do we have to say anything at all? Kind? Are your words based on a desire to help?

Do your words destroy others or give life? What we say directs our life and beliefs. Words have the power of life and death.

What do I do about it? Ask God to clean up your heart. Replace the old with new through the power of Jesus. Meditate on God's truth and give life by your words.

The F-O-U-R Letter Word

Language. It is the mode of communication. One of the glaring issues of our day is the lack of concern with what language we use.

How are words supposed to be used as a Christ-follower?

It is a discussion I've had numerous times with students. What is wrong with saying, " ." It is what I call sin rationalization:

Students feel the need to rationalize their decisions based upon two reasons: 1. They compare to what other people are doing in order to make themselves feel better. 2. They downplay the meaning of words based upon social acceptance.

A better question is, "What is RIGHT with it, instead of what is WRONG with it."

Have we lost the truth of God's Word even in Christian families?

Back to language. I've heard many reasonings of why we use cursing (or "cussing" if you are from the south).

Top reasons for cursing: (I've heard) - "It is how I was brought up, I don't really mean the words." - "Well in this culture (or that one) that word isn't wrong." - "I'm just being real, I might as well tell you what I think." - "It is just a word!"

Let's look at what God's Word says about how a follower of Christ should talk:

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29

For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Matthew 12:34.

And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you. Matthew 12:36-37.

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23.

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2.

Do your words destroy others or give life? What we say directs our life and beliefs. Words have the power of life and death.

What do I do about it? Ask God to clean up your heart. Replace the old with new through the power of Jesus. Meditate on God's truth and give life by your words.

What do you think about the power of words? Add to the discussion below in the comments section.