“But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” – Matthew 15:18
Bible Verses About What Goes In Comes Out
The Importance of Our Thoughts
As we navigate our lives, we often underestimate how our thoughts shape our words and actions. The Bible teaches us that our thoughts are vital because they directly influence what comes out of our mouths. When we fill our minds with positive, loving, and godly thoughts, we reflect these attitudes in our interactions. Likewise, negative thoughts can lead us to utter words that may hurt others. Thus, as followers of Christ, we should intentionally choose what we pour into our minds, knowing it ultimately shapes our character and impact on those around us.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
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
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
2 Corinthians 10:5
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:5
The Influence of Our Environment
In our daily lives, we are surrounded by various influences, from our friends to the media we consume. It becomes crucial to be mindful of what we allow to enter our minds. Our environment greatly shapes our thoughts and attitudes, which ultimately affect what comes out of us. We must choose our surroundings wisely to ensure we are positively influenced and filled with goodness. Surrounding ourselves with uplifting, encouraging, and godly people can significantly impact what we express in our relationships and interactions.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
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
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20
Psalm 101:3
“I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.” – Psalm 101:3
James 1:21
“Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” – James 1:21
The Power of Our Words
Words hold tremendous power in our lives, influencing not only our thoughts but also the lives of those around us. The Bible explicitly warns us against the negative impacts of careless words; they can lead to disputes and harm relationships. Conversely, our words can also inspire, uplift, and encourage ourselves and others. Let us remember that what we say reflects our inner thoughts and feelings. By choosing our words wisely, we can be vessels of kindness, hope, and love.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Matthew 12:34
“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
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
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
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
The Heart’s Role in What Comes Out
Our hearts play an essential part in what goes into our lives and what flows out as a result. The Bible often speaks about the heart as the center of our thoughts and emotions. It is imperative to nurture our hearts, ensuring they are filled with love, compassion, and truth, which will naturally pour out in our actions and words. By aligning our hearts with God’s desires, we pave the way for positive expressions of faith and kindness in our daily lives.
Matthew 12:35
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.” – Matthew 12:35
Luke 6:45
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart.” – Luke 6:45
Proverbs 23:7
“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” – Proverbs 23:7
Jeremiah 17:9
“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” – Jeremiah 17:9
Psalms 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalms 51:10
The Impact of Prayer and Meditation
As we grow in our faith, we realize the transformative power of prayer and meditation. These practices help us to bring our thoughts and feelings to God, allowing Him to shape and refine us. Through prayer, we can confess our struggles, seek guidance, and ask for strength to guard our hearts and minds. Meditating on God’s Word allows His truth to penetrate our hearts, producing fruits in our lives. When we intentionally make room for prayer and meditation, we nurture our inner selves, leading to a positive outpouring in our lives.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Psalms 1:2
“But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.” – Psalms 1:2
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Psalms 119:15
“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” – Psalms 119:15
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
The Role of Teaching and Wisdom
As we strive to ensure that what goes in yields goodness coming out, learning from wise teaching becomes essential. The Bible is replete with wisdom that guides us toward righteous living. By immersing ourselves in Scripture and sound teaching, we equip ourselves to live out the principles of love, kindness, and faith. Teaching and wisdom encourage us to seek more profound truths and help reinforce righteous thoughts in our hearts, leading to fruitful conversations and actions.
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 18:15
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” – Proverbs 18:15
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Proverbs 4:7
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
Psalm 119:111
“Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart.” – Psalm 119:111
Final Thoughts
In our walk of faith, it is vital to remember that what we allow into our hearts and minds significantly shapes our lives. Our thoughts, words, and choices are direct reflections of the goodness or negativity that may reside within us. By focusing on uplifting thoughts, surrounding ourselves with positive influences, and engaging in prayer and meditation, we build a foundation of love and joy in our expression.
As we intentionally seek wisdom through Scripture and the teachings around us, we can nurture our hearts, leading to an abundant outpouring of blessings in our words and actions. Let’s embrace the beautiful truth that what goes in can transform our lives and the lives of others for the better.
I encourage you to explore more and seek God’s guidance in all you do. You might be interested in reading about Bible verses about lying and cheating or Bible verses about temptation for deeper insights into living a life that pleases God.