“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Bible Verses About Controlling Your Tongue
The Power of Our Words
As we explore the significance of controlling our tongue, we realize that our words hold immense power. They can build others up or tear them down, influence lives positively or negatively. In our daily interactions, we should strive to speak with love and kindness, remembering that what we say reflects our hearts. Just as God spoke the world into existence, we are also made in His image, and our words can create or destroy. Let’s challenge ourselves to use our speech to express faith, encouragement, and hope, being mindful of the impact our words have on those around us.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
James 3:5
“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” – James 3:5
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
Ephesians 4:29
“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
The Importance of Listening
When we discuss controlling our tongue, we should also acknowledge the importance of listening. Often, we may be quick to speak without fully understanding what others are saying. We are encouraged in the Bible to be “quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” By actively listening, we show respect to others and create a space for healthy, constructive conversations. This allows us to respond thoughtfully, ensuring our words contribute positively to the dialogue. Our ability to listen well also fosters stronger relationships and enhances our communication skills.
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
Proverbs 18:2
“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” – Proverbs 18:2
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak.” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
Proverbs 17:27
“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” – Proverbs 17:27
Avoiding Gossip and Slander
As followers of Christ, we are called to avoid gossip and slander. Speaking ill of others not only damages our relationships but can also harm our own spiritual journey. The Bible teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves, which includes speaking kindly about them. Choosing words that uplift rather than tear down reflects the character of Jesus. Let us be mindful in our conversations, promoting unity and love within our communities instead of division and strife.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” – Proverbs 20:19
Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” – Psalm 34:13
1 Peter 3:10
“For whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.” – 1 Peter 3:10
Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” – Proverbs 11:13
Matthew 12:36
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.” – Matthew 12:36
The Impact of Encouragement
We have witnessed the transformative power of encouragement in our lives and the lives of others. Speaking words of support can uplift spirits and foster hope in challenging times. The Scriptures remind us to encourage one another, building each other up in faith. When we choose to speak positively, we reflect God’s love, showing His goodness to those around us. Let’s commit to being sources of encouragement who inspire others to grow and thrive in their relationship with God.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” – Proverbs 12:25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
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
The Need for Wisdom in Speech
As we reflect on how to control our tongue, we recognize the necessity of asking God for wisdom. The Bible encourages us to seek wisdom in all areas of our lives, including the words we speak. When we approach our conversations with a mindset of humility and understanding, our words become tools for growth and reconciliation. It’s essential to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, enabling us to choose our words wisely and act according to God’s will.
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 19:20
“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” – Proverbs 19:20
Psalm 19:14
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” – Psalm 19:14
Speaking Life Over Others
Our words have the potential to bring life and hope to others. We are called to speak words of affirmation, love, and encouragement that reflect God’s promises. As we engage with others, it’s important to remind them of their worth in Christ and the hope that we have in Him. When we choose to speak life, we become agents of change in our communities, sharing the love of Jesus and encouraging others to trust in His plans for their lives.
Proverbs 4:24
“Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.” – Proverbs 4:24
Isaiah 50:4
“The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary.” – Isaiah 50:4
Proverbs 15:23
“A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!” – Proverbs 15:23
Job 16:5
“But if it were me, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him.” – Job 16:5
Proverbs 10:11
“The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.” – Proverbs 10:11
Final Thoughts
Controlling our tongue is a vital aspect of living a life that honors God. Our words can create and destroy, encourage and discourage. Through the scriptures, we learn the importance of speaking with wisdom, kindness, and love. As we strive to use our speech positively, let’s also remember to listen and avoid gossip. Encouraging others can strengthen our relationships and build up the body of Christ. We must ask God for wisdom, seek to speak life, and be a source of hope and joy to those around us.
As we reflect on these passages, let us commit to controlling our tongue and using it as a tool for good. There’s always more to explore, and if you’re interested in understanding how to keep your mouth shut in certain situations, check out these verses. We can deepen our connection with God and others by learning and growing together, including what the Bible says about the tongue.