A week or so ago, the Australian media contained reports that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd had resorted to swearing to strengthen his disapproval, of fellow parliamentary members complaining, about a cut to their annual printing allowance.

News Limited has reported: “Australia’s Kevin Rudd has refused to apologise for repeatedly swearing during a meeting with factional bosses earlier this month, saying the “robust conversation” was consistent with Labor Party traditions. A number of MPs copped some expletives when they visited the prime minister’s parliament house office to object to plans to cut politicians’ annual printing allowances by 25%. The prime minister said in the presence of three female MPs: “I don’t care what you f***ers think“.

Today, I was listening to a couple of commentators on a local Christian radio station talk about this case. One comment stood out – that probably his habit of swearing in this, and similar cases, was due to his uncontrolled anger. Anger resulting from having his authority or views questioned by others within his sphere of influence.

The second point raised was that it’s not uncommon to hear swearing in the workplace, yet at the same time there was an increasing awareness of workplace bullying and the need to address this issue by providing a safe and non-threatening work environment. Consequently, the Prime Minister should lead by example, control his language – and not go with the mob, in regard to traditions (which should be left back in the past where they belong).

The last point is this, Kevin Rudd is recognised by the community as a Christian politician – and there are many news clips of him attending a Sunday church service, especially when he is travelling overseas.  One thing, I’ve noticed over the years, is that most Christians don’t normally swear. It may take some time, and a lot of help from the Holy Spirit, but people who follow on the heels of Jesus – don’t seem to swear that much. Even if, they hit a finger with a hammer, and an expletive escapes their lips – they are quick with an apology.

As it is with most of these habits, it’s the reason for the swearing, that highlights if there is anything ‘wrong’. If it’s the result of anger, or impatience, or a type of power-play to intimidate others-  it’s really an expression of their pride. Their opinion, time or position is more important than that of others; and, perfectly summed up in the phrase, ‘I don’t care what you think’. Pride is one of the worst of sins. In summary, a humble heart does not swear in anger or impatience, their love for people erases the desire to intimidate or threaten others.

What do you think?

Posted on September 27th, 2009 by Shayne
Filed under: General