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I've decided not to watch any movies or shows that have offensive language in them, but the place I hear the most swear words is school. What do I do about that? I can't stop it all, but hearing it at school is affecting my thoughts. What can I do?

First of all, congratulations for taking steps to keep offensive language out of your mind. The Bible is clear when it says, "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things" (Philippians 4:8, NIV). You are truly taking steps to make that true in your life. Good for you.

It doesn't surprise me that you hear lots of offensive language at school. The best strategy? Try to let it go in one ear and out the other. Stay away from swearing whenever you can, but when you do hear it, don't dwell on it. Today, I sat near three guys in the airport who probably used the "F" word in every other sentence they said. I prayed for them, then got up and moved.

It won't always be that easy. If your friends (or parents or teachers) use bad language, it's going be harder to get away from it. What can you do? You may want to tell them—as politely as you can—you'd appreciate if they tried to use cleaner language around you. Be careful not to come off as judging them or saying they are bad people. Just explain that it makes you feel uncomfortable.

Of course, some people aren't going to respect your wishes. In fact, it could get worse. And you're not going to be able to stop or get away from all the swearing in the world. So, try praying that God will help protect you from harmful influences. Pray that you won't hear it or that you'll have the ability to just let it go. It's amazing what God can do when we don't have the strength or ability.

Due to the volume of mail, Jim cannot answer every letter.

Copyright © 2004 by the author or Christianity Today International/Campus Life magazine.
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