In a World Full of Foul Language, Words Still Matter

 

The Power of Words: A Personal Journey

As a young man, my speech often reflected the culture of the group I spent time with, where cussing was the norm. It was limited to that environment, but it became a habitual part of how I communicated. However, at the age of 25, my life changed dramatically when I became a Christian. My faith gave me a new perspective on how I wanted to live, and one of the first areas I felt convicted to address was my speech. From that moment on, I stopped cussing entirely.

This transformation wasn’t without its foundation. At an early age, my father instilled in me the importance of words. I remember him once telling me, after observing people who used cuss words excessively, that those with poor vocabularies often resort to cursing because they lack the words to properly express themselves. While not universally true, his observation left a lasting impression on me. He taught me that words matter—they reflect not only our education but also our character and intentions.

When I became a Christian, my father’s wisdom came to life in a new way. Scripture added depth to his teaching and reshaped my approach to language. One verse in particular, Ephesians 4:29, became a guiding principle for me:

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”

This verse reminded me that words hold incredible power—to build up or to tear down. I wanted my speech to reflect the grace, love, and encouragement of my faith, and I realized that the way I spoke was an important part of that testimony.

Reflecting on today’s culture, I see how society’s approach to language has shifted. Words like the F-word, once considered shocking and inappropriate, have become commonplace—even in PG-13 movies. Even more troubling is how often the Lord’s name is taken in vain in casual conversation and popular media. What was once seen as offensive or disrespectful is now widely accepted as normal. This cultural shift serves as a reminder of the importance of being intentional with our words, especially for those of us seeking to live out our faith in a way that honors God.

The decision to change my speech wasn’t just about breaking a habit—it was about aligning my words with the values I embraced as a follower of Christ. Looking back, I see that change as more than a personal victory. It’s a testimony to the power of both parental wisdom and faith to guide us into a better way of living.

In a world where words are often taken for granted, I believe they hold immense potential to reflect grace, hope, and integrity. True change is possible, and when we choose to let our words build up rather than tear down, we can be a light in a culture that desperately needs kindness and encouragement.

Final Thoughts

Words are powerful. How we choose to use them matters. My journey reminds me—and I hope it reminds you—that with faith, wisdom, and intentionality, we can reflect the love of Christ in even the simplest of ways. What will your words say about you today?