Gossip, slander, and hurtful words have the power to damage relationships and sow seeds of discord among people. The Bible provides invaluable teachings on the importance of our speech and how it can impact both ourselves and those around us. In this article, we explore Bible verses that shed light on the consequences of talking ill about others and offer guidance for fostering positive communication.
Bible Verses About Talking Bad about Others
Proverbs 6:16-19
“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.”
This passage highlights the importance of avoiding speech that harms others. It emphasizes that speaking ill of others, spreading lies, or sowing discord goes against God’s desires. Instead, we are called to promote unity, truth, and love in our interactions.
Proverbs 11:9
“The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, But through knowledge the righteous will be delivered.”
Here, we are reminded of the destructive power of hypocritical speech. Speaking ill of others without true knowledge or understanding can harm relationships. In contrast, the righteous, guided by wisdom and knowledge, are delivered from such destructive behavior.
James 4:11-12
“Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Who are you to judge another?”
This passage from the Book of James emphasizes the importance of refraining from speaking ill of others. It highlights that when we judge and speak evil about our brothers and sisters, we are essentially passing judgment on God’s law. Instead, we should focus on self-reflection, understanding that only God is the ultimate judge.
Matthew 7:1-2
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
Jesus’ words remind us not to judge others hastily or harshly. When we speak negatively about others, we open ourselves up to the same judgment. Therefore, it is essential to approach others with grace, understanding, and a desire to build them up rather than tear them down.
Proverbs 17:9
“He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends.”
This verse underscores the value of love and forgiveness. When we choose to cover someone’s wrongdoing, seeking to restore them gently and privately, we demonstrate love. However, constantly repeating and gossiping about their faults can create division and damage relationships.
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”
Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians encourages believers to be mindful of their speech. We should avoid corrupt or harmful words and instead focus on words that build others up. Our speech should aim to impart grace and bring about edification and encouragement to those who hear it.
Proverbs 10:18
“Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, And whoever spreads slander is a fool.”
This proverb highlights the foolishness of spreading slander and hiding hatred behind deceitful words. It reminds us of the importance of integrity and honesty in our speech. Instead of engaging in harmful talk, we should seek reconciliation and love.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse man sows strife, And a whisperer separates the best of friends.”
This verse warns against the dangers of sowing discord through gossip and whispering. Such behavior not only leads to strife but can also sever even the strongest friendships. It encourages us to be cautious of the power our words hold and to use them wisely.
Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.”
The psalmist reminds us to guard our tongues against speaking evil or spreading deceit. Our words have the potential to bring life or cause harm. Therefore, it is vital to exercise self-control and ensure our speech reflects truth, kindness, and righteousness.
Proverbs 26:20
“Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
This proverb poetically illustrates the connection between gossip and the perpetuation of strife. Just as fire needs wood to burn, strife thrives on the presence of those who spread tales and gossip. By refraining from engaging in such behavior, we can contribute to the cessation of strife.
Proverbs 20:19
“He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.”
This verse warns against associating with individuals who engage in talebearing and flattery. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining trustworthy and loyal relationships, avoiding those who use their words to manipulate or harm others.
Proverbs 18:8
“The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, And they go down into the inmost body.”
Talebearing is compared to tempting treats that entice the receiver. Such words can easily be accepted and absorbed into one’s thoughts and emotions, leading to strife and hurt. This verse reminds us to be cautious of the allure of gossip and the harm it can cause.
Matthew 12:36-37
“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words, you will be justified, and by your words, you will be condemned.”
Jesus reminds His followers of the weight and significance of their words. He emphasizes that we will be held accountable for every idle word we speak. Our words have the power to bring either justification or condemnation. This serves as a powerful reminder to choose our words carefully and speak in a manner that honors God and builds others up.
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This proverb highlights the transformative power of gentle and kind words. When confronted with anger or hostility, responding with a soft and calm answer can defuse the situation. However, responding with harsh or hurtful words only intensifies anger. It encourages us to choose our words wisely and respond with grace and love.
Proverbs 26:22
“The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, And they go down into the inmost body.”
Talebearing and gossip are likened to delicious food that is enticing and easily consumed. However, just as unhealthy food can harm our physical bodies, talebearing harms relationships and causes strife. This verse reminds us to resist the temptation of gossip and to consider the consequences of our words.
James 1:26
“If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.”
James emphasizes the importance of self-control in our speech. Mere religiosity without self-discipline in our words is rendered futile. True faith is demonstrated by exercising restraint in what we say, using our words to bless, encourage, and build others up.
Also Read: 23 Bible Verses About Cut Off Family Ties (With Commentary)
Proverbs 17:27
“He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.”
This verse underscores the value of wisdom and discernment in our speech. A person with true understanding knows when to speak and when to remain silent. They exercise self-control, exhibiting a calm spirit that avoids unnecessary conflict and destructive words.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”
In this passage, the apostle Paul encourages believers to let go of negative and harmful speech. Instead, we are called to embrace kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Our words should be filled with love and reflect the forgiveness we have received through Christ.
Proverbs 10:19
“In the multitude of words, sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.”
This proverb highlights the wisdom of exercising restraint in our speech. Speaking excessively increases the likelihood of sinning through careless or hurtful words. True wisdom lies in knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, avoiding unnecessary offenses.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.”
Paul exhorts the Colossian believers to rid themselves of negative and harmful speech. This includes expressions of anger, malice, and blasphemy, as well as using filthy language. Instead, we are to cultivate speech that reflects Christ’s love, purity, and grace.
Psalm 141:3
“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.”
The psalmist recognizes the need for divine assistance in controlling their speech. They call upon the Lord to guard their mouth and guide their words. This verse serves as a reminder that we should seek God’s help in speaking words that honor Him and bless others.
Proverbs 29:20
“Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.”
This proverb highlights the danger of speaking hastily and without thought. A person who consistently speaks without restraint or consideration is likened to a fool. It encourages us to pause, reflect, and choose our words carefully, as the impact of our speech can have long-lasting effects.
Proverbs 12:18
“There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health.”
This verse vividly describes the destructive power of hurtful words, comparing them to the piercing of a sword. In contrast, the tongue of the wise brings healing and promotes health. It reminds us of the importance of using our words to encourage, uplift, and bring restoration to others.
Proverbs 15:4
“A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”
This proverb draws a parallel between a wholesome tongue and a tree of life, indicating its life-giving qualities. On the contrary, perverseness and corrupt speech have the ability to break a person’s spirit. It encourages us to cultivate speech that brings life, joy, and restoration to those around us.
James 3:5-6
“Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.”
James vividly describes the power of the tongue to either bring great harm or immense good. He likens the tongue to a small flame that can ignite a vast forest fire. Our words hold incredible power, capable of defiling our whole being or setting ablaze the course of our lives. We are reminded of the need to guard our speech and use it wisely, recognizing its potential impact.
Proverbs 21:23
“Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of exercising caution and self-control in our speech. When we guard our mouth and tongue, refraining from speaking rashly or harmfully, we protect ourselves from unnecessary troubles and conflicts. It speaks to the value of thoughtful communication and the positive impact it can have on our lives.
These Bible verses remind us of the significance of our words and the responsibility we bear in using them. They encourage us to refrain from speaking ill of others, spreading gossip, or engaging in harmful talk. Instead, we are called to promote love, unity, and edification through our speech. May these verses inspire us to speak words that bring life, healing, and encouragement to those around us.