What does the Bible say about power of the tongue?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that our words carry great power to give life or death, reveal the condition of the heart, and will be judged by God. Proverbs 18:21 and 15:4 praise speech that heals and nourishes, while Proverbs 12:18 warns that reckless words wound like a sword. Believers are therefore called to answer gently, speak only what builds others up, and keep their tongues from evil, as Proverbs 15:1, Ephesians 4:29, and 1 Peter 3:10 teach. James reminds us that no one can tame the tongue by mere human strength, driving us to dependence on God’s grace. We should pray with Psalm 141:3 for the Lord to guard our mouths and use our speech for truth, peace, and edification.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love it will eat its fruit.
- 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.
- Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
- 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.
- Psalms 141:3
Set a watch, Yahweh, before my mouth. Keep the door of my lips.
- 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."
- 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 12:18
There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, But the tongue of the wise heals.
- James 3:8
But nobody can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
- Proverbs 15:4
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, But deceit in it crushes the spirit.
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