“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Bible Verses About Power In The Tongue
The Impact of Words
As we travel together on our spiritual path, we soon realize that our words carry weight. With every utterance, we can construct or destroy, uplift or undermine. The Bible frequently addresses how our words reflect our hearts, and serve as tools that can either build up our relationships or tear them down. Exploring the impact of our words helps us understand the responsibility we have to communicate wisely and lovingly. When we let positive speech flow from our hearts, we honor God and enhance our communities. We need to always be conscious that our words can echo in someone else’s heart long after they leave our mouths.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
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
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 15:4
“The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” – Proverbs 15:4
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
In our daily lives, it’s effortless to get caught up in negativity. However, as followers of Christ, we have the immense privilege of sharing words of encouragement. We can uplift others with compliments, affirmations, and supportive comments, every bit an extension of God’s love. By being mindful of our speech, we remind each other that we are valued and loved in God’s eyes. These moments can change a person’s day, and even their life. Encouragement brings hope and can inspire greatness in those we touch with our words.
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 3:13
“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” – Hebrews 3:13
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
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
Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5
Words of Warning
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 10:19
Proverbs 17:28
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 17:28
Proverbs 26:20
“Without wood, a fire goes out; without a gossip, a quarrel dies down.” – Proverbs 26:20
Proverbs 18:6
“The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating.” – Proverbs 18:6
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
Words of Wisdom
God’s Word is a continuous source of guidance for us. This powerful collection of scriptures reveals the immense importance of using our tongues wisely. It emphasizes that wisdom is better than gold, and reflecting on these scriptures helps us choose our words thoughtfully. When we saturate our hearts with God’s Word, our speech will reflect His wisdom. This not only enriches our lives but also, more importantly, lends clarity and insight to those around us.
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Proverbs 15:7
“The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.” – Proverbs 15:7
Proverbs 18:4
“The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing torrent.” – Proverbs 18:4
James 3:17
“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” – James 3:17
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
Words of Worship
Praising God should flow from our lips, and it’s a powerful reminder of His guidance in our lives. Worship through our words connects us to His heart and helps us remember all the ways He has blessed us. The act of worship transforms our speech into something that enhances our faith over time. Each time we verbally express our love for God or share His goodness with others, we deepen our relationship with Him. Worship through words can uplift our spirits and those of others around us.
Psalm 71:8
“My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long.” – Psalm 71:8
Psalm 35:28
“My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.” – Psalm 35:28
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
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Hebrews 13:15
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
Words of Truth
Lastly, speaking the truth is crucial in a world filled with lies and deceit. We are called to reflect honesty in our communication, and this is vital to building trust and integrity in our relationships. Speaking God’s truth not only glorifies Him but encourages others to seek His light. When we anchor our words in truth, we build a strong foundation for our relationships, leading others to Christ and fostering an environment that honors His kingdom.
John 8:32
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32
Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect, the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
Proverbs 23:23
“Buy the truth and do not sell it—wisdom, instruction, and insight as well.” – Proverbs 23:23
1 Corinthians 13:6
“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” – 1 Corinthians 13:6
Final Thoughts
As we consider the power held in our words, let us remember the immense influence they have in our lives and the lives of those around us. The Bible teaches us to build up, encourage, warn, and worship through our speech. We have the incredible ability to bring life or death with our tongues, so we must practice self-control and reflect on God’s wisdom.
Let’s commit to speaking words of truth and love while cultivating a spirit of encouragement and understanding. Each day presents us with countless opportunities to share a smile, a kind word, or an uplifting message. Our words can either be a source of pain or a source of healing, depending on how we choose to express them.
I encourage you all to let your conversations be filled with grace and truth. And if you’re looking for more inspiration on this journey of speaking wisely, consider reading about Proverbs 18:20 and Proverbs 12:18. These scriptures can guide and enlighten you on how your words can reflect God’s love.