The tongue possesses great power, capable of both uplifting and tearing down. The Bible offers guidance on how to use our words wisely, speak life, and promote unity. Join me as we explore a compilation of Bible verses that shed light on the significance of the tongue, encourage us to cultivate speech that honors God and blesses others, and inspire us to let our words be a source of grace and truth.
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Bible Verses About the Tongue
Proverbs 15:4
“A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”
This verse speaks to the power that our words can hold. A gentle, well-spoken tongue can bring life and restoration to those around us. However, a tongue that is deceitful and cruel can be destructive and bring pain.
James 3:5-6
“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.”
This passage warns of the dangers of the tongue. The tongue may be a small part of our body, but it has the potential to do tremendous harm. It can be a source of wickedness and corruption, causing destruction and division in people’s lives.
Proverbs 12:18
“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
This verse shows the differences between the effects of words spoken harshly and carelessly compared to the power of kind and wise words. Words spoken with thought and wisdom can bring healing and restoration. However, Words spoken impulsively and harshly can be cutting and destructive.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
This verse teaches us to be wise with our words. When we speak with others, our words should always be kind and gracious, even when we disagree with them. Our words should bring flavor to our conversations, enriching them rather than causing controversy.
1 Peter 3:10
“For ‘Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
This verse commands us to keep our words pure and righteous. Our words should not be used to harm others, but rather to bring life and goodness. If we desire to have a good and fulfilling life, we must have self-control and use our tongue in a positive and loving way.
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
This verse tells us that our words should always be used for building others up and bringing grace to them. We should not use our words for any corrupting or negative actions. We should always choose carefully what we say and ensure it’s appropriate for the occasion.
Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
This verse reveals the profound impact that our words can have. We should make a conscious effort to speak life-giving words that bring positivity and hope to those around us.
Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.”
This verse instructs us to keep our words pure and honest. We should never use our words to deceive or harm others.
Matthew 15:11
“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
This verse reminds us that while it’s important to be mindful of what we put in our bodies, what comes out of our mouth is just as important. Our words can defile us just as much as our actions.
Proverbs 10:31
“The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off.”
This verse contrasts the wise words spoken by the righteous versus the twisted and malicious words of the wicked. Those who speak wisdom and truth will ultimately prosper, while those who spew hate and deceit will be punished in some way.
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.”
This verse emphasizes that those who claim to be religious or have faith must live by their words and actions. If we do not practice self-control with our words, then our faith is meaningless. We must strive to live a life that is true to our beliefs, with every word we speak reflecting that belief.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
This verse tells us to avoid anything vulgar and immoral, especially with our words. We must strive to speak pure and righteous words that bring light and healing to those around us.
James 1:19
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
This verse encourages us to listen more and speak less. We should take the time to hear and understand before responding with our words, to prevent saying something harmful or cruel. We should also strive to remain patient and calm, rather than allowing anger to consume us and lead us to speak harshly.
Proverbs 26:28
“A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin.”
This verse illustrates the damage that lies and flattery can do. Those who lie and deceive with their words ultimately cause harm and ruin to themselves and those around them. We must always speak honestly and sincerely, even if it’s not popular or easy.
Proverbs 17:28
“Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.”
This verse advises us to listen more and speak less. Sometimes, it’s better to stay quiet and observe, rather than blurting out something foolish or impulsive. We should strive to speak only when necessary, and avoid speaking just to hear ourselves talk.
James 3:8-9
“But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.”
This passage highlights the power that our tongue holds, both for good and evil. Though we cannot fully control our words, we should strive to use them in a way that brings honor to God and life to those around us. We should never use our words to curse or harm others who were made in the image and likeness of God.
Psalm 39:1
“I said, ‘I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle, so long as the wicked are in my presence.'”
This verse reminds us of the power of our tongue to sin and cause harm. We must always be mindful of what we say and guard our words carefully. We should avoid using our words to spread evil or negativity, especially when in the presence of wickedness.
Matthew 12:36
“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak,”
This verse serves as a warning that we are accountable for every careless word we speak. We must be mindful of the weight our words hold and use them wisely and honestly.
Luke 6:45
“The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”
This verse reminds us that our words come from the overflow of our heart. If we desire to speak words that bring life, we must first cultivate a heart of goodness and compassion.
Proverbs 21:23
“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of keeping control over our words and tongues. By guarding our mouth, we can avoid unnecessary trouble and protect ourselves from harm.
What does the Bible say about the Tongue?
The Bible contains several verses and passages that emphasize the importance of the tongue and the power of our words. It highlights how our speech can have significant impacts on ourselves and others, shaping our relationships, and reflecting our character. The teachings on the tongue can be found throughout both the Old and New Testaments, and they generally emphasize the following points:
- Power of Words: The Bible acknowledges the immense power of words. It states that with our tongues, we can bless and encourage others, or we can curse and harm them. It warns against using our tongues to deceive, slander, gossip, or spread lies, as such actions can cause great harm.
- Words Can Bring Life or Death: Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” This verse illustrates that our words can either bring life and healing or lead to destruction and harm.
- Control of the Tongue: The Bible encourages believers to exercise self-control over their tongues. James 3:2 (NIV) states, “We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.” Controlling the tongue is seen as a sign of spiritual maturity.
- Edifying Speech: Christians are encouraged to use their words to build up and encourage others. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) advises, “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.”
- Avoiding Gossip and Slander: The Bible warns against engaging in gossip and slander, as these can sow discord among people and damage reputations. Proverbs 16:28 (NIV) says, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
- Speaking Truth and Love: Christians are encouraged to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). This means being honest and straightforward with our words, but doing so with kindness and consideration for others.
- Accountability for Our Words: Jesus said in Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV), “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” This emphasizes the seriousness of our speech and the need to be mindful of the words we use.
In summary, the Bible places great importance on the tongue and our speech, urging believers to use their words wisely, truthfully, and with love. It reminds us that the tongue can be a powerful tool for good or evil, and we should seek to honor God with our words and interactions with others.