In 2019, a man named Michael J. Murray made headlines after he was fined $100 for cussing in public. He was sitting in a public area in Henderson, Nevada, when he shouted expletives in frustration. Someone nearby called the police, and the officer, citing a city ordinance that forbids the use of profane language in public places, issued him a fine. While it might seem extreme, this incident highlights a simple truth: words have power—and the wrong words can have serious consequences.
In our everyday lives, we often brush off swearing as no big deal, something everyone does. But the Bible makes it clear: our words matter. They’re not just casual expressions or a way to vent our frustration; they reveal our hearts and shape our relationships. Whether or not the law is involved, the impact of cussing—on our souls, relationships, and testimony—is far greater than we may realize.
Words Matter
In Proverbs 18:21 we are told: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”
That’s heavy. Death and life? All wrapped up in what we say? Yes. Because when we choose to use vulgar language, we’re not just expressing anger or frustration—we’re participating in something that can destroy relationships, reputations, and even our own spiritual health.
The Bible says, in James 3:5-6: “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.”
That’s some serious language right there. James compares the tongue to a fire—small, but capable of causing massive destruction. Think about it: how many times have you heard someone’s life spiral out of control after a poorly timed outburst, a bad argument, or even a social media post that used profanity? One spark can set a whole forest ablaze. Your words are like that. Whether it’s calling someone names, swearing in anger, or using profanity to make a joke, it all leaves a mark.
It’s About More Than Just the Words
Look, the reality is that swearing is often a symptom of something deeper—our hearts. Jesus made it clear in Matthew 15:18: “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.”
In other words, what comes out of your mouth is an indicator of what’s in your heart. If you’re constantly dropping cuss words, maybe it’s not just about your frustration with a situation. Maybe it’s a reflection of the anger, bitterness, or unforgiveness that’s lurking in your heart. And don’t get me wrong—everyone messes up from time to time. But if cussing is part of your regular vocabulary, it might be time to take a long, hard look at where your heart is.
The Influence on Others
It’s not just about you. It’s also about the people who are listening. Let’s talk about parents and kids for a minute. Ever heard a kid repeat something they shouldn’t have? Maybe a swear word they picked up from TV, a friend, or worse—mom or dad? Yeah, me too. It’s awkward. And it’s even worse when you realize that we, as adults, set the example. If we’re constantly using language that isn’t pleasing to God, we’re teaching the next generation that it’s okay to disrespect people with our words.
In Ephesians 4:29, Paul writes: “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”
Corrupt communication isn’t just cussing—it’s any language that tears people down. It could be gossip, it could be slander, and it could definitely be swearing. Paul says we should be speaking words that build others up. Imagine how much different our workplaces, homes, and social settings would be if Christians took this to heart and used their words to encourage and bless, rather than tear down.
The Real Cost of Cussing
The impact of swearing can extend beyond just the words themselves. James White, a successful executive at a growing company, was in a crucial meeting with a potential client. The terms of the deal were causing frustration, and in a moment of irritation, he let loose with a string of curse words, not considering the impact on his audience.
The client, known for its professionalism, immediately took offense—not just to the language, but to the lack of self-control and respect shown. Despite White's qualifications and the potential for a lucrative contract, the client chose to walk away. The decision cost White a significant opportunity, and the ripple effect of losing that deal affected his company’s future projects. This situation underscores how words—especially in tense moments—can have far-reaching consequences. That one moment of cussing cost James thousands of dollars. Sure, we might feel good in the moment, venting our anger or frustration, but the aftermath can be costly—whether it’s losing a deal, damaging relationships, or even hurting our testimony as Christians.
Swearing can also harm our relationship with God. In Colossians 3:8, Paul tells us:
“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”
Notice how Paul ties the need to put off filthy language with anger and wrath? When we lash out with cuss words, it’s often rooted in deeper issues like unforgiveness, frustration, or a lack of self-control. But when we choose to let go of that behavior, we’re choosing peace, patience, and love instead.
So, What’s the Solution?
Alright, so what do we do about it? How do we change our speech and clean up our mouths?
Pray for a change of heart. Ask God to help you see the power of your words and give you the strength to speak life, not death.
Be intentional with your language. Catch yourself before you let that word slip out. Replace negative or harmful words with encouraging ones.
Remember your testimony. Your words represent Christ. Are you showing Him off with your speech, or tarnishing His name?
Surround yourself with better influences. If you’re around people who are constantly swearing or using foul language, it’s easy to slip into those habits. Find a group of believers who will help you stay accountable.
Speak Life
At the end of the day, your words matter. Whether you’re at work, at home, or hanging with friends, what you say has a real impact. Instead of cussing and swearing to make yourself feel better, let’s choose to speak life, to build each other up, and to reflect the love and grace of God in our conversations.
Let’s follow the example of Proverbs 12:18, which says: “There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.”
The tongue of the wise brings healing, not destruction. So, the next time you’re tempted to drop that curse word,
remember—your words have the power of life and death. Choose wisely.
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