What does the Bible say about our tongue?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that our tongue reveals the condition of our hearts and must be governed by God’s grace for truth, love, and life rather than sin and destruction. James 3:8 humbles us by showing that no one can tame the tongue apart from the Lord, while Proverbs 18:21 warns that words carry the power of life and death. Jesus says in Matthew 12:36-37 that we will give account for every careless word. Therefore believers are called to guard their mouths, as Proverbs 21:23 teaches, and to speak only what builds others up, according to Ephesians 4:29. Through repentance, faith, and the Spirit’s renewing work, our speech can become gentle, truthful, and healing.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- James 3:8
But nobody can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
- Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love it will eat its fruit.
- Matthew 12:36-37
[36] I tell you that every idle word that men speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. [37] For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."
- Proverbs 21:23
Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.
- 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 12:18
There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, But the tongue of the wise heals.
- 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.
- Proverbs 15:4
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, But deceit in it crushes the spirit.
- Proverbs 6:16-19
[16] There are six things which Yahweh hates; Yes, seven which are an abomination to him: [17] Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood; [18] A heart that devises wicked schemes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief, [19] A false witness who utters lies, And he who sows discord among brothers.
- 1 Peter 3:10
For, "He who would love life, And see good days, Let him keep his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.
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