By Briana Bass, Christian Romance Author, Devotional Writer & Certified Professional Coach

“I love Jesus, but I cuss a little.” That’s a popular phrase and one I say regularly. Some people believe saying swear words is a sin. Obscene language is often a hot topic in secular society as well. We institute morality laws around obscenity, including certain curse words.

Think of the words you generally don’t hear on television (there are exceptions, such as non-cable channels or streaming platforms). Those same words are probably ones you won’t say in front of children.

Why not? Do you feel personally convicted by the Lord to not use that kind of language? Or are you merely following social norms?

Oh, Fudge (Only I Didn’t Say Fudge)

Words are powerful. We can use them to hurt others or build others up. What we say matters. But words are also simply words. Language changes frequently. Words and phrases fall out of favor. New words are invented. So who determines which words are bad words?

The Bible does not contain a list of swear words we are not supposed to say. It does tell us to be careful about what we say:

But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth (Colossians 3:8 KJV)

If you survey 50 people and ask them to define filthy communication, you will likely receive 50 different answers. Even those who agree that a particular set of words are filthy, may disagree on the degree to which those words are vulgar. It’s often a sliding scale.

And to make it more subjective, remember that different cultures have their own definitions of obscene language. There are even words that don’t translate to other languages!

Yet we pass judgment on our neighbors and ourselves for using those words.

Words, Words, Words

I’m a writer. Words are my medium. I strive to use my words effectively, to encourage and empower. I recognize that my words have an effect. I have a responsibility to use my words wisely.

I choose to not use swear words in my stories, blog, newsletter, or social media. I know obscenities can be a turn-off for some of the people I’m trying to reach. In my personal life, however, I sometimes swear like a sailor and I won’t apologize for it.

Do I sound like a hypocrite? Maybe. But I don’t see it as any different than someone wearing lounge pants at home versus wearing business casual at the office. Our behavior changes based on the circumstances, location, or people we are interacting with.

I believe there is a place and time for certain words. I also believe the words we speak do not always reflect the intention of our hearts. Words are letters strung together to help us communicate with one another. They serve a practical purpose. So do forks and cars and washing machines. The objects themselves carry no sin but if wielded improperly they could cause harm. The sin is in the intention of the heart of the person.

Freedom of Speech

Speak freely, my friends. Recognize that society has established rules around specific words and phrases and follow those rules where it’s appropriate. More importantly, keep your heart in check. What is the intention behind the words you are speaking? And don’t mind others if they judge you for the language you use. It’s not their place to judge anyway.