What does the Bible say about quick to listen and slow to speak?
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The Bible teaches that wise and godly people listen carefully, restrain hasty words, and speak in ways that reflect humility, love, and the fear of the Lord. James 1:19-20 calls believers to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, since human anger does not produce God’s righteousness. Proverbs repeatedly warns that many words invite sin, while self-control displays wisdom (Proverbs 10:19; 17:28; 29:20). Rather than insisting on our own opinions, we should receive correction and answer gently (Proverbs 12:15; 15:1). Through Christ, whose grace renews our hearts, believers are to use speech that builds others up and gives grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29).
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- James 1:19
So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
- James 1:19-20
[19] So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; [20] for the anger of man doesn't produce the righteousness of God.
- Proverbs 17:28
Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.
- Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
- Proverbs 10:19
In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, But he who restrains his lips does wisely.
- Proverbs 18:2
A fool has no delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own opinion.
- Proverbs 21:23
Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.
- Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
- Proverbs 12:15
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who is wise listens to counsel.
- 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.
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