Today we will talk about Bible verses about the tongue. Many Christians do not know what this means. Our words can build up or break down, inspire or deflate, heal or harm. The tongue is a powerful tool, and the Bible addresses its usage frequently. As we read through these verses, let us meditate on the way we use our tongues in everyday life—whether that be in conversations with friends, family, or even strangers. Come alongside me as we uncover the wisdom found in scripture that will help us speak life and encouragement, rather than negativity and discord. Our journey of faith includes the responsibility to guard our words, and what better way to equip ourselves than with the truth of God’s Word!
Bible Verses About the Tongue
Our Words Reflect Our Heart
As we reflect on Bible verses about the tongue, we recognize that our words are a true reflection of our heart. The heart is the root of our emotions and intentions, and what we say often reveals what is deep within us. Jesus teaches us that our speech can be an indicator of our spiritual condition. Let’s remind ourselves to keep our hearts pure, as this will lead to speaking words that uplift and honor God. With intention and care, we must strive to use our tongues to bring life rather than death.
Matthew 12:34
“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
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. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Luke 6:45
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Proverbs 15:28
“The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.” – Proverbs 15:28
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.” – James 1:26
The Power of Our Words
Next, let’s consider the power our words hold. The Bible teaches us that words can greatly impact others, sometimes even leading them closer to God or pushing them further away. We are reminded that our tongues can bring death or life! When we understand the weight of our words, we begin to recognize how we can wield this power wisely. It’s essential to choose our words carefully, knowing that they can shape the world around us and influence those we care about.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
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
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 10:11
“The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.” – Proverbs 10:11
Words of Encouragement
Encouragement is key when we think about how to use our tongue in a positive way. We have the opportunity to uplift others with our words, making them feel valued and loved. The Bible is rich with verses that serve as a reminder of the importance of speaking encouragement to one another. Let’s embrace the calling to bring light and encouragement into the lives of those we encounter. Our words can spark hope and motivate others to pursue their dreams!
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
Romans 15:2
“Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” – Romans 15:2
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
The Danger of Gossip
Gossip can be tempting, but it is one of the most dangerous ways our tongues can bring harm. The Bible warns us against speaking ill of our neighbors, and gossip can tear down relationships and build walls of division. It’s crucial for us to evaluate our conversations and make a conscious effort to refrain from spreading rumors or speaking negatively about others. Instead, let’s use our tongues to uplift and speak the truth in love, reinforcing the bonds that connect us.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” – Proverbs 16:28
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” – Proverbs 20:19
1 Peter 2:1
“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.” – 1 Peter 2:1
Psalms 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” – Psalms 34:13
Titus 3:2
“To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” – Titus 3:2
The Need for Self-Control
Developing self-control over our words is a constant challenge for us. The Bible teaches us that we should be mindful of what we say, even in heated moments. Our ability to exercise self-control when speaking can change the atmosphere around us and lead to constructive dialogue, rather than conflict. By practicing patience and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our conversations, we learn to respond rather than react with our tongues. It’s a journey, and we learn and grow along the way!
Proverbs 13:3
“Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.” – Proverbs 13:3
James 3:2
“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.” – James 3:2
Ephesians 4:31
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” – Ephesians 4:31
Proverbs 29:20
“Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.” – Proverbs 29:20
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
Speaking Truth
In a world filled with misinformation and half-truths, we are called to be speakers of truth. When we share the truth with love, it can be transformative, leading someone toward hope, healing, and ultimately, to Christ. We should be brave enough to speak truth even when it’s uncomfortable. The Bible encourages us to be messengers of God’s truth, which can set others free from their burdens. Let’s commit to using our tongues to spread truth that brings light into dark places.
Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” – Ephesians 4:25
Proverbs 12:19
“Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.” – Proverbs 12:19
Proverbs 24:26
“An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” – Proverbs 24:26
Romans 12:9
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” – Romans 12:9
John 8:32
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32
Speaking with Wisdom
How we speak reflects our wisdom. The Bible encourages us to seek wisdom and use it in our conversations. When we ask God for wisdom, He generously provides it. As we engage with others, let’s focus on speaking not only from knowledge but also from the wisdom that leads to understanding. We are reminded to share our insights in a manner that fosters connection and unity, rather than division. Let’s strive to approach our conversations intentionally, reflecting a wise heart.
James 3:13
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” – James 3:13
Proverbs 15:7
“The lips of the wise spread knowledge; the hearts of fools are not upright.” – Proverbs 15:7
Ecclesiastes 10:12
“Words from the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.” – Ecclesiastes 10:12
Proverbs 18:15
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” – Proverbs 18:15
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Guarding Our Speech
Finally, we should be vigilant in guarding our speech and remain accountable to one another. God desires for us to speak in ways that honor Him and those around us. The Bible challenges us to think before we speak, ensuring our words align with our faith and reflect His love. As we build each other up, let’s make it a priority to keep our conversations pure and uplifting. Together, we can hold one another accountable and create an environment of respect and encouragement.
Psalms 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” – Psalms 141:3
James 3:8
“But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” – James 3:8
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” – Colossians 3:8
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Final Thoughts
As we’ve explored these verses about the tongue, we have uncovered the importance of speaking with intention and care. Our words have the power to impact ourselves and others deeply, and we must be mindful of how we communicate. From reflecting our hearts to encouraging one another, we can use our mouths to bring life and joy. By choosing to speak truth, wisdom, and kindness, we create a more loving environment within our communities. As we grow in our understanding of how to use our tongues wisely, let us always strive to honor God with our speech and uplift those around us. Together, let’s commit to becoming vessels of His love through our words!
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
