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Dealing with off-color jokes

Some of us try to act as though we didn't hear it; some of us grin our way through, hoping no one will notice how uncomfortable we are; some of us blast out loud in protest, embarrassing and alienating people in the process. Profanity and suggestive conversation are difficult to avoid - especially in the working world, and often we don't know how to deal with it.

Profanity

Profanity has become acceptable in almost every setting. It's commonplace, and it's not limited to less-educated people. Profanity indicates a lack of self-control, good taste, and a limited vocabulary.
Make sure you are not a participant. This kind of talk is off-limits for a Christian. No one you work with should ever be able to remember hearing a profane word from you. Read Titus 2:7-8.
Don't worry about how you will be perceived if your language is different from everyone else's. Regardless of whether they think of you as a religious fanatic, your course is clear.
If the profanity continues, you may choose to change jobs. Drastic, yet still a choice.
Pray diligently for those who offend you.
Challenge the offender (privately). Tell him/her that it is painful for you to hear Jesus' name used that way since He is so precious to you. Anything you say or do must come from a heart of love and compassion, not from a "holier-than-thou" attitude. It cannot come in a condemning way, and shouldn't put the offender on the spot or make him/her look bad.

Vulgarity

Though distasteful and vulgar, vulgarity doesn't demand the same bold stand that the use of our Lord's name does.
Off-color jokes may dry up when you're around. Consider this a compliment. Your testimony should be that clear. Most people will admire and respect you, even if they never tell you that, or even if they tease you about it.
Endure it, but in no way show any approval or acceptance of the joke. You are not required to appreciate these kinds of jokes or remarks, even when they come from upper management.
You may find it appropriate to address co-workers or peers directly and simply request that they wait until you're out of earshot to repeat their jokes.
There is no double standard. Good taste and appropriate language are the same for male and female.
Sexual advances or remarks must have the same response: an unqualified, unhesitating "NO!" If you ever stop to consider whether it might harm your career to take a firm stand, you've opened the door for trouble. Don't be flattered by suggestions or advances.

Jesus as our example:

He didn't worry about offending people in cases where He felt the issue was important enough. Many times He stated his opposition to things and people - and His words were strong and undeniable. His purpose was not to offend people, but rather to defend what He knew demanded His defense. It requires prayer and sensitivity on your part. If you are in the midst of these kinds of circumstances, give it a great deal of prayer time, and be sure you remain compassionate.

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