Does the kind of language we use really matter? You’ll find the answer in the book of Ephesians 5:4, TLB. "Dirty stories, foul talk and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead remind each other of God's goodness and be thankful!"

What about misusing God's name? Does the Bible say anything about that? One of the commandments forbids the misuse of God’s name. Look in Exodus 20: 7, TLB. "You shall not use the name of Jehovah your God irreverently, nor use it to swear to a falsehood. You will not escape punishment if you do."

Will someone who wants to be a Christian have to change the way he talks? Discover the answer in Colossians 3:8, NIV. "But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."

Jesus' followers are to speak with care. You’ll find it in Colossians 4:6, NIV. "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."

What we believe shows by how we speak. Surprised? Then look in Proverbs 13:3, NIV. "He who guards his lips guards his soul, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin."

Even young people can be examples for others by their choice of good language. It’s in Timothy 4:12, NIV. "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."