Mama's Mouthwash Is Needed Again!

The decline of morality in our culture is evident in many so-called "reality" television programs. One such program was the Osbourne Family, who appeared on a television awards program several years ago. During this program, the family used such vulgar language on the show that there more "beeps" than actual words spoken. The Osbourne language was so bad, that one awards presenter walked off the stage and refused to be a part of the show.

What is even more saddening, is the vulgar language among elementary school-aged children today. One little ten-year-old girl was heard to say that the vulgar language of today's culture "does not offend me."

One of the reasons for the decline of morality and the frequent us of vulgar language in our society, is the breakdown of the family unit. The Bible admonishes families to "train up a child in the way he should go" (Proverbs 22:6), and fathers are to "bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Sad to say, fathers and mothers have not been fulfilling their responsibility in these important areas.

Just a few generations ago, filthy language was not tolerated among children. Mothers and grandmothers used to use lye soap to wash out their child's mouth when vulgar language came out of it, in order to impress upon the child that foul language would not be tolerated (mine used it frequently!). The heavenly admonition to "let your speech be always with grace" (Colossians 4:6) and "sound speech that cannot be condemned" (Titus 2:8), is still valid today!

It was the wise Solomon who wrote regarding our language: "The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, But the words of the pure are pleasant" (Proverbs 15:26). It is indeed sad for any individual who thinks he or she must resort to filthy or vulgar language to make themselves understood. May the time come when parents again assume the responsibility of directing their children, not only in all walks of secular life, but in their spiritual walk as well (1 Peter 2:21; 1 John 2:3-6; Colossians 3:1-2).

Dear reader, mama's mouthwash (with lye soap) is needed again!

Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

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