Sometimes, we hear that sharing is important, especially when it comes to things we own or our feelings. But there are moments when the Bible teaches us that not everything should be shared. This might seem confusing at first, but these verses help us understand when it’s wise to keep certain things to ourselves.
Today, we will look at a few Bible verses that remind us about the importance of boundaries and when it’s okay to hold back from sharing. These lessons can guide us in our everyday lives, helping us make smart choices about what to share with others and what to keep private.
Bible Verses About Not Sharing
Keeping Trusted Words Close
In our lives, we often share our thoughts and feelings with others. However, there are times when we need to guard what we say to maintain trust and protect the sensitive parts of our lives. We are called to be wise in our conversations and to know when it is best to keep our thoughts private. This is a crucial aspect of building solid relationships, as some things are meant for our closest friends or even just between us and God.
Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” – Proverbs 11:13
This verse teaches us that trust is vital in our relationships. Sharing too much can lead to broken trust and hurt feelings. Being a trustworthy person means knowing the importance of keeping certain matters confidential.
Proverbs 25:9
“Debate your cause with your neighbor, and do not disclose the secret of another.” – Proverbs 25:9
This verse highlights the importance of discretion in our discussions. Sharing someone else’s secret can harm both the person involved and our reputation. It encourages us to focus on resolving our issues without dragging others into the mix.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
This verse reminds us of the importance of listening before we speak. Sometimes, holding back our words can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict. We should reflect on our thoughts before expressing them aloud.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” – Proverbs 20:19
This verse advises us to be cautious about those who frequently share secrets. Listening to gossip can draw us into untrustworthy behaviors that lead to pain in relationships.
Psalm 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” – Psalm 141:3
This prayer calls for divine help in guarding our words. It recognizes the need for wisdom in choosing when to speak and when to remain silent, showing that we need God’s guidance in how we share our thoughts.
The Wisdom of Silence
There are moments in life when silence truly is golden. Not every thought or opinion needs to be expressed. We can choose to be quiet even when we have something to say. This wisdom can help us avoid disputes and misunderstandings while allowing us to reflect on our words more deeply. Choosing silence can be a powerful way to show humility and restraint.
Proverbs 17:28
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 17:28
This verse highlights that wisdom isn’t just about knowing the right thing to say, but often about knowing when to stay silent. Sometimes, saying nothing may make us appear more thoughtful and wise.
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
There is a time for everything, including silence. It is a reminder that we must find the right moments to express ourselves, while also acknowledging when it’s best to remain quiet and listen.
Proverbs 13:3
“Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.” – Proverbs 13:3
This verse teaches us the importance of being thoughtful in our speech. Careful communication can save us from serious consequences, while careless words can lead to trouble.
Job 13:5
“If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.” – Job 13:5
Job’s friends often spoke too soon, which added to his suffering. This verse illustrates that sometimes silence can demonstrate a depth of understanding and support rather than filling the space with unnecessary words.
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 10:19
This verse encourages us to consider the consequences of what we say. Speaking excessively may lead to falsehoods and misunderstandings, while wise individuals know when to pause and reflect.
Sharing Our Burdens Wisely
We are called to share our burdens and support one another, but there are times when we should be thoughtful about how we do so. Sharing our struggles can foster connection and support, yet we must consider who we share with and why. Not every detail of our lives needs to be shared with everyone, and sometimes, we may find it best to confide only in trusted friends or to seek God directly.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
This verse speaks to the importance of sharing burdens within the Christian community. However, we need to be discerning about what we share and with whom, ensuring that we do so in a way that builds each other up rather than spreads negativity.
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
When facing struggles, it’s essential to bring our worries to God first. This verse encourages us to lay our concerns before Him instead of burdening others with every detail, reinforcing our need for divine help.
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” – Proverbs 12:25
This verse beautifully illustrates the power of uplifting conversation. However, we should be mindful of how we share our struggles and choose our words carefully so that they promote healing rather than anxiety.
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.” – Matthew 7:6
This verse warns us to be cautious about whom we share our valuable and sacred thoughts and feelings with. Not everyone is prepared to respect our vulnerabilities, so we must be wise about our audience.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
This verse reflects the beauty of sharing burdens and challenges in a healthy, constructive way. When we confide in the right people, we can grow stronger, but we must choose wisely whom we trust.
Guarding Our Hearts
Our hearts are precious, and the Bible encourages us to guard them, controlling what we allow to enter them. Not everything is meant to be shared, as some thoughts and emotions require protection. Being careful about what we share can help us maintain our peace and joy while keeping negativity at bay.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
This powerful verse highlights our responsibility to protect our hearts. By being wise about what we share with others, we can cultivate peace and positivity in our lives without exposing ourselves to unnecessary hurt.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
This verse encourages us to focus on the good and beautiful aspects of life. By choosing not to share negative thoughts or feelings continually, we can foster a healthier mental state for ourselves.
Matthew 12:34
“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
This verse reminds us that what we say reflects our inner thoughts and feelings. Being cautious about our words can lead us to protect our hearts and maintain joy and grace.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
This verse encourages vigilance, reminding us that negative influences can impact our hearts. By being cautious about what we share and whom we share with, we can protect ourselves from potential harm.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
This verse invites us to focus on spiritual matters rather than worldly distractions. By keeping our hearts aligned with God’s truth, we can choose to share uplifting and meaningful thoughts.
Privacy in Seasoned Gathering
When we gather with others, whether family, friends, or fellow believers, we must practice discretion. It does not mean we shouldn’t share joys and concerns, but we must ensure that we do so with wisdom. Knowing when to keep things private fosters respect within our relationships and ensures that we support each other in healthy ways.
Proverbs 18:19
“A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.” – Proverbs 18:19
This verse shows us how easily conflicts can arise when privacy is breached. In our gatherings, respecting boundaries and being mindful of sensitive topics can help maintain peace and harmony.
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” – Matthew 18:15
This verse addresses the importance of private conversations in resolving conflicts. Some issues are best handled directly and privately rather than airing them in public settings, which can cause embarrassment or hurt.
1 Corinthians 14:26
“What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you gather, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.” – 1 Corinthians 14:26
This verse highlights the spirit of unity in gatherings while reminding us of the importance of what we choose to share. To grow together as a church, we should all focus on contributing positively without overwhelming others.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Here, we learn about the depth of love we should show to each other. Honoring others takes into account the importance of maintaining boundaries and knowing what to share in various situations.
Proverbs 10:12
“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.” – Proverbs 10:12
This verse stands as a reminder that love can mend relationships even when difficult conversations must happen. Sharing out of love means being considerate, compassionate, and aware of our words.
Emotional Wisdom in Sharing
It’s crucial to exercise emotional intelligence when sharing our thoughts and feelings. As we navigate our lives, we must remember to express our emotions with wisdom and sensitivity. This approach can help others understand us better while also ensuring we don’t overwhelm them with too much information or our burdens.
Proverbs 14:29
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29
This verse highlights the importance of patience, particularly in emotional contexts. Understanding when to express our feelings can foster better connections with others without overloading them.
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:9
When we feel intense emotions, we need to take a step back and avoid hasty sharing. This verse reminds us that it’s wise to handle our feelings thoughtfully, allowing us to communicate effectively.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
This verse encourages us to cultivate gracious and constructive conversations. The notion of seasoning our words pushes us to think about how we share our feelings, ensuring we do so in a refreshing way.
Proverbs 16:32
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32
This verse showcases the strength found in self-control, especially when it comes to sharing emotions. Exercising restraint can lead to more meaningful connections and avoid unnecessary conflict.
James 1:26
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.” – James 1:26
Here, our speech is underlined as important in demonstrating our faith. We need to be aware of how and when we share our thoughts as it reflects our spiritual life and emotional health.
Final Thoughts
In our Christian walk, we learned that sharing isn’t always necessary or wise. Knowing when to keep things personal is essential for maintaining trust and building deeper relationships. We explored various verses that highlight the importance of discretion, the power of silence, and how to wisely share our burdens.
By embracing the wisdom from these scriptures, we can cultivate stronger bonds with those around us while nurturing our emotional and spiritual well-being. We should seek God’s guidance in everything we say and do, allowing His wisdom to shine through our words.
As we wrap up this discussion, let us remember the value of thoughtful sharing in our lives. We can explore scriptures like not being afraid to share the gospel and not telling our business for further inspiration on these themes.