InterVarsity Press

Conversations: Responding to Offensive Language

Lammie:

How can I tell someone that her use of God's name in a meaningless way is offensive? She says "oh,God" or "God" or "my God&"; or the even the vulgar "G-D" phrase in every other sentence. I've hinted at it, but I don't really know how to tell her how disturbed and offended I am.

Ruth:

Your friend is probably not using the name of God intentionally—as in cursing—except when she uses the "G-D" phrase. If I were in your situation, I would try to recognize her positive traits and, if possible, overlook the offensive language.

The biblical command not to take God's name in vain is primarily for Christians. If she is not a professing Christian, perhaps she, through you, will come to know that she can come to God "just as I am" as the old hymn reminds us.

Thanks for writing.