22nd July 2024

Noise Pollution

Put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy,

filthy language out of your mouth.

 Colossians 3:8

Profanity and crude language are becoming more common, no more so than on prime-time television programmes. Many writers and producers seem to be intent on pushing the limits of how much immoral and offensive speech the public will allow.

Profane and vulgar language is noise pollution of the worst kind. It dishonours God and degrades men and women. Conversation punctuated by cursing, swearing, and crude and dirty expressions obscures the beauty of noble ideas. Words that condemn others can inflame anger and destroy relationships. They can inflict lasting hurt to sensitive souls who are battered by verbal abuse.

Ungodly language creates an immoral and non-spiritual atmosphere, which is hostile to clean thinking and living. Its deafening sound can all but drown out the voice of God’s Spirit. That’s why the Word of God spells out in clear terms the kind of language that must not come from the lips of those who are followers of Jesus (Colossians 3:8), as well as the kind that should characterize our speech (4:6).

Centuries ago, the psalmist offered a prayer that we would be wise to echo: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3). That prayer is much needed today, more than ever.

Bible Reading

Colossians 3:1-11.

Prayer

God of Grace, Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips. In the name of Your Son, I prayer. Amen.