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Key Bible Verse: I said to myself, "I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say. I will curb my tongue when the ungodly are around me" (Psalm 39:1). Bonus Reading: Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Timothy 3:6-8

One year, during my first Washington Redskins stint, we'd lost a few games. I was the butt of a scathing article by a local reporter, implying that team owner Jack Cooke and I were at odds and that he was ready to give me the boot. The phone rang. In his gravely voice, Mr. Cooke growled, "I'm going to bring this writer in here, and you and I are going to confront him about the untruths in his article."

As soon as the writer arrived, Mr. Cooke was all over him. "You've come between me and my coach," he railed. "This man is like one of my sons!" Then he delivered a series of searing, four-letter words. Every so often, Mr. Cooke paused momentarily, turned to me, and said, "Joe, excuse my language." Then he immediately turned back to the reporter and resumed his invective-filled tirade.

In my younger years I also cursed a blue streak. But after rededicating my life to God, I ditched speech inconsistent with my new stand. I didn't make a big deal about it, nor reprimand any of my staff for their language. Yet players, assistants, opposing coaches—even Mr. Cooke—were sensitive about using profanity around me. People will respect you more, not less, when you take a stand.

—Joe Gibbs in Racing to Win

My Response: What is there about the way I talk that commands respect?

Adapted from Racing to Win (Multnomah, 2002) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Take control of what I say, O Lord, and keep my lips sealed. —Psalm 141:3

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