Years ago the city council of South Pasadena, California, did something unusual. They adopted a resolution calling for one week off from swearing. It was called, “No Cussin’ Week”. No one would be arrested or fined, but it was an attempt to encourage more civility in our conversations. Interestingly, it was a 14-year-old boy who suggested the idea. The young man, who admits that he occasionally cussed, started a “No Cussin’ Club” at school.

One can only hope that such initiatives will encourage others to be more careful in their use of language.

The Bible continually warns us against inappropriate language and exhorts us to use speech that is holy and uplifting.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”—Ephesians 4:29