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What does the Bible say about hurtful words?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that hurtful words are sinful and destructive, while gracious, truthful speech reflects a heart being renewed by God. Proverbs 12:18 contrasts reckless speech that wounds like a sword with words that bring healing, and Proverbs 15:1 commends a gentle answer that turns away wrath. Jesus teaches in Matthew 15:10-11 that defilement comes from the heart, so harmful speech reveals our need for repentance and cleansing. Ephesians 4:29 calls believers to speak only what builds others up and gives grace. Because life and death are in the power of the tongue, Christians should pray with Psalm 19:14 that their words and hearts would please the Lord.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Proverbs 12:18

    There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, But the tongue of the wise heals.

  • Proverbs 15:1

    A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.

  • James 1:26

    If anyone among you thinks himself to be religious while he doesn't bridle his tongue, but deceives his heart, this man's religion is worthless.

  • Ephesians 4:29

    Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.

  • Proverbs 18:21

    Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love it will eat its fruit.

  • Proverbs 21:23

    Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.

  • Matthew 15:10-11

    [10] He summoned the multitude, and said to them, "Hear, and understand. [11] That which enters into the mouth doesn't defile the man; but that which proceeds out of the mouth, this defiles the man."

  • Proverbs 15:4

    A gentle tongue is a tree of life, But deceit in it crushes the spirit.

  • 1 Peter 3:7-12

    [7] You husbands, in like manner, live with your wives according to knowledge, giving honor to the woman, as to the weaker vessel, as being also joint heirs of the grace of life; that your prayers may not be hindered. [8] Finally, be all like-minded, compassionate, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous, [9] not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but instead blessing; knowing that to this were you called, that you may inherit a blessing. [10] For, "He who would love life, And see good days, Let him keep his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. [11] Let him turn away from evil, and do good. Let him seek peace, and pursue it. [12] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And his ears open to their prayer; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

  • Psalms 19:14

    Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in your sight, Yahweh, my rock, and my redeemer.

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