“We don’t say shut up….”

What words were or are not okay in your home? Why were/are they considered offensive? We were not supposed to say, “shut up” or “stupid” or “liar.” Curse words were definitely off limits, too. Today, in our culture, some words that were considered swearing or “cussing” are not such a big deal now. The words have been normalized into everyday conversations via the internet, social media, music, and television.

So why does it matter, then, if everyone is doing it, or rather, saying it? Why does our language matter? Language is everything. Words define us. Words describe us. Words tell us so much………..communication. Cultures vary in word usage as it relates to communication. What is “football” in England and what is “football” in America? The answer is that “football” in England is actually soccer and “football” in American is football. Our words matter.

But, bad words……..bad language…….bad communication. Who cares? I like to think, that besides my parents with their rules on language, that it matters to God. Boundaries (or rules in life) keep us safe and help us to have good relationships. Didn’t we learn rules about friendship in kindergarten? Be kind, share, and care about each other’s feelings. Why would I then tell someone to “shut up” or call them stupid? Why would I even use bad language to communicate with someone that I want to be a friend with? It seems rather counterintuitive.

It is really how we use the words that matter. The words that come out of our mouths reflect the sins that are in our hearts. Evil comes out of our mouths when we curse others. We are to bless others. Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Gut check using some big questions: What words do I want to use to reflect my heart? Do I want to curse or bless? What words do I want to use in interactions to support healthy relationships? Am I changing my language around my parents and to impress my friends? What’s the right thing to do?