The Power of the Tongue: 10 Bible Verses about Words

Your words hold incredible power, capable of building up or tearing down. In this post, we’ll go through 10 Bible verses about words to help you control your tongue.

Related: The Golden Rule – Treat People Right

Proverbs 18:21

“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”

This proverb emphasizes the profound impact of words, highlighting their potential to bring either life or death and the responsibility that comes with our speech.

Ephesians 4:29

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”

Paul encourages believers to choose words that build up and encourage, avoiding language that is harmful or negative.

Proverbs 15:1

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”

This proverb illustrates the influence of a gentle response in diffusing conflict, contrasting it with the escalation that harsh words can cause.

Matthew 12:36-37

“And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”

Jesus underscores the importance of our words, cautioning that we will be held accountable for what we speak on judgment day.

Colossians 4:6

“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”

Paul advises believers to engage in gracious and attractive conversations, reflecting Christ’s love and wisdom in their words.

Proverbs 16:24

“Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”

This proverb uses the imagery of honey to convey the sweetness and positive impact of kind words on both the soul and the physical well-being.

James 1:26

“If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.”

James emphasizes the incongruity of claiming religious devotion while failing to control one’s speech, highlighting the importance of words in reflecting true faith.

Psalm 141:3

“Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips.”

This psalmist’s prayer acknowledges the need for guidance and intervention in controlling the words spoken, seeking God’s help in guarding the tongue.

Proverbs 12:18

“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”

Proverbs contrasts the destructive impact of cutting remarks with the healing power of words spoken with wisdom.

Matthew 15:18

“But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you.”

Jesus teaches that the words we speak are reflective of the condition of our hearts, highlighting the connection between our inner disposition and our speech.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we seek Your guidance in using our words for good. May our speech be filled with kindness, encouragement, and wisdom. Guard our tongues and help us to speak words that reflect Your love. In moments of difficulty, grant us the grace to respond with gentleness and grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Conclusion

The Bible offers profound insights into the significance of our words. As we reflect on these 10 verses, may we be mindful of the power our words hold and strive to use them in ways that honor God, build up others, and reflect the love of Christ. May our tongues be instruments of life, healing, and encouragement, bringing glory to the One who is the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ.