“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 The Tongue
Understanding the Power of Words
As we reflect on the significance of controlling the tongue, we realize that our words have immense power. Each phrase we utter can bring life or destruction, encouragement or despair. The Bible repeatedly stresses the importance of being mindful of what we say. Our words are not just sounds; they carry weight and impact the lives of those around us. We want to express kindness and promote love, rather than allow harsh words to discourage and hurt others. Acknowledging the weight of our speech can inspire us to choose our words carefully, promoting a spirit of gentleness in all our conversations.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
James 3:9
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.” – James 3:9
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
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
In our journey of faith, controlling the tongue also goes hand-in-hand with the ability to listen. When we take the time to listen rather than speak, we open the door for understanding and empathy. Listening allows us to respond wisely and positively, instead of hastily. It’s a reminder that communication is a two-way street. Engaging in active listening can change our responses from instinctive and possibly hurtful to thoughtful and compassionate. We should strive to be people who listen more than we speak, ensuring that our conversations are balanced and meaningful.
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 18:13
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to be silent and a time to speak.” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 10:19
Speaking with Kindness
Controlling the tongue is closely related to the kindness that we wish to share with others. Our words can either uplift or tear down, showing us the immense responsibility we have in our speech. The Bible encourages us to ensure that our words reflect love, compassion, and grace. There’s always a choice to speak with kindness, to be the voice that builds rather than breaks down. Let us strive to make our words a fountain of life for everyone we encounter, spreading positivity and encouragement. By choosing kindness in speech, we become lights in a sometimes dark world.
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
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” – 1 Peter 3:9
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26
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
Practicing Self-Control
Controlling our tongue requires discipline and self-control. The struggle to speak thoughtfully and wisely often challenges us. Through prayer and reliance on God’s strength, we can learn to manage our speech. The Bible serves as a guiding light, leading us to practice self-restraint when emotions run high. By cultivating self-control, we can avoid saying things we might regret later. Embracing the discipline of controlling our tongue changes how we interact with others, blessing both them and ourselves. We help create an environment of respect and understanding among each other.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Proverbs 29:11
“Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.” – Proverbs 29:11
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